The first issue of a new magazine about UJ Research and Innovation was published on Friday 12 Jan 2024. This first issue showcases selected published research outputs, awards and books.
The focus of the first issue is exploring solutions to challenges posed by Sustainable Development Goals.
Says Prof Sarah Gravett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research & Internationalisation (Acting): “It gives me great pleasure to introduce to you the very first Issue of the University of Johannesburg’s Research and Innovation Magazine.
“As the university pursues impact for the good of society through its research and innovation efforts, this magazine presents us with a perfect platform to showcase various projects as well as the EXCELLENCE that is prevalent across our great University!”
Fresh water resources
Throughout the world, freshwater resources are under pressure for various reasons. In Sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa, reliable and safe fresh water supply is a perennial challenge. For this reason, improving the treatment of wastewater before it flows into rivers and other freshwater resources is crucial.
A new type of economical photocatalyst that shows significant potential to break down pharmaceutical residues and other organic pollutants, using energy from the sun, is the cover story for this issue. This is the work of Prof Nsika Dlamini and his team.
SA citrus export industry
We also take a look at how the citrus export industry in South Africa has grown into the second biggest in the world after Spain. This is an outlier success, especially from a developing country such as ours. There are many moving pieces in this evolving industry, as shown by a team of UJ researchers.
Protecting endangered wildlife
Africa is home to the ‘Big Five’ animals which people on safari expect to see. Each year, many wildlife species including the Big Five are trafficked for illegal gain. Despite many anti-poaching measures ‘on the ground’ and Anti-Money Laundering laws, such illegal profits continue to enter the legal global financial system.
Here Dr Cayle Lupton introduces the factors contributing to the current situation and looks at options to plug a crucial gap in current legislation.
Crucial nutrients for human development
As our planet’s climate continues to change, we need to focus more on ‘minor’ food sources and diversifying our staple food sources. One of these ‘minor’ grains is sorghum which thrives a wide variety of climatic conditions. Sorghum is also grown throughout Africa and Asia as a food crop.
A study by Dr Janet Adebo and Dr Hema Kesa presented here shows a significant source of vital nutrients for human wellbeing, especially child development, in traditionally grown sorghum bran.
