25 Jul 2024

A student from Botswana International University of Science and Technology,(BIUST) Mr Nhlanhla Othusitse, emerged as the winner and was awarded for the best paper presentation in the energy category. His research project focused on exploring the potential of biogas production from the university’s wastewater treatment sludge by co-digesting it with slaughterhouse waste.

Mr Othusitse received a certificate for his achievement during the closing ceremony of the US-Botswana workshop on Research Technologies in Water and Energy Needs for Remote Austere Locations 2024 (WORTHWEEDS 2024) in Maun recently 

The workshop brought together experts from the US, Botswana, and around the world to discuss water and energy resources crucial for sustainability and resilience in remote locations.

In an interview, Mr Othusitse expressed gratitude to the United States Army and BIUST officials for recognising his team’s efforts. He highlighted that the research aimed to explore biogas production potential from BIUST’s wastewater treatment sludge through the third stage of biological processing. He mentioned that currently, the anaerobic digestion ponds release methane into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Moreover, Mr Othusitse emphasised that the project addressed waste management challenges and aimed to generate energy from sustainable non-renewable sources at BIUST. He proposed that by proper collection and harnessing of methane, it could be used to produce heat and electricity.

Ms Boitshepho Morakaladi emerged the winner on the water category, after her team presented a paper that investigated on valorisation of coal fines for the production of grapheme oxide for water treatment and desalination.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, BIUST deputy vice chancellor for teaching and learning, Professor Elisha Shemang, commended the US Army for their commitment to advancing research and fostering international collaboration. He appreciated the army for sponsoring the event and making it possible. He also thanked all presenters and panelists saying their expertise and insights had enriched their understanding and sparked meaningful conversations. 

The depth of knowledge and the innovative approaches discussed, he said, had provided them with new perspectives and had set the stage for future advancements. He acknowledged that participants had the privilege of engaging with leading experts, researchers from various fields noting that the sessions had been filled with dynamic and inspiring discussions. “Let us continue to build on the momentum generated here and work towards achieving our shared goals of sustainable water and energy solutions. 

The importance of our mission cannot be overstated. In remote and austere locations, access to reliable water and energy sources are not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for survival and development,” he added. Prof. Shemang also appreciated that the research and technologies discussed had the potential to make a profound impact on communities around the world and urged participants to remain committed to collaborative efforts as they look into the future. By working together, he said, they could overcome challenges and create sustainable solutions that would benefit not only their countries but also the global community. ENDS