In the pursuit of sustainable development and public health, scientific research plays a critical role. One remarkable young researcher making a powerful impact is Dr Muthumuni Managa, a Y2-rated scholar by South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF). She is driving change through her groundbreaking work on clean water access and water purification technologies.
Currently serving as a senior lecturer at the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS) in the College of Science, Engineering and Technology at Unisa, Dr Managa stands out as a brilliant young academic with limitless potential. Her vision is clear: to create a society where access to safe and healthy drinking water is a right, not a privilege.
Outstanding Research Track Record
With an impressive portfolio of over 63 peer-reviewed publications and an h-index of 21 (as listed on Google Scholar), Dr Managa’s research has significantly contributed to the global scientific community. Her commitment to excellence and innovation continues to shape the future of water-related research in South Africa and beyond.
From Rural Beginnings to Scientific Excellence
Born and raised in the rural village of Ha-Rabali in Venda, Limpopo, Dr Managa’s academic journey began in schools without science laboratories. This did not stop her from dreaming big. Later, she transitioned to a model C school equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. She reflects: “These two environments gave me a holistic view of privilege and taught me the difference between ability and opportunity, and between equality and equity.”
Innovative Water Purification Research
Dr Managa’s current research focuses on developing cost-effective, eco-friendly, and highly efficient water disinfection technologies, particularly for rural areas where water sources are prone to contamination. She is pioneering the use of antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) as an alternative to conventional disinfection methods.
“Acquiring water that is free from pathogens remains a major concern,” says Dr Managa. “This requires the introduction of new, low-cost, and effective water purification systems.” She adds that rural practices such as water storage in buckets or tanks often lead to the development of biofilms, exacerbating the problem.
To bridge the gap between science and society, she actively engages in community training programs that educate local residents—particularly women—on basic water purification and safe storage methods.
Support and Recognition
Dr Managa has received institutional support from Unisa through several initiatives, including the Women in Research (WIR) programme, the Innovation Support Programme (ISP), and the VisionKeepers Programme (VKP). These platforms have empowered her to share her research on international stages and foster collaborations with global experts.
“With the backing of Unisa, young academics are well-positioned to achieve their goals and make meaningful international contributions,” she affirms.
International Fellowships and Leadership
Over the past three years, Dr Managa has earned widespread recognition. She is a member of the prestigious TWAS-UNESCO Associateship Scheme, enabling regular visits to research hubs in the Global South.
She is also the 2024 recipient of the University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars (UMAPS) programme, which supports African scholars in building global academic networks.
Furthermore, she is a fellow of the 9th edition of the Science by Women initiative by the Women for Africa Foundation, which aims to promote African women’s leadership in science, technology, and innovation to address key development issues such as water, climate change, food security, and public health.
Mentorship and Future Goals
In 2024, Dr Managa proudly supervised her first MSc student to graduation. More students are expected to complete their degrees under her mentorship in 2025. She is currently enrolled in Phase 2 of the Future Professors Programme (FPP), led by the University of Johannesburg on behalf of South Africa’s Department of Higher Education and Training. The programme aims to prepare outstanding young academics for promotion to full professorship.
With such programs and her remarkable trajectory, Dr Managa is clearly on the path to becoming one of South Africa’s most impactful future professors in the field of environmental science and clean water research.
Words of Inspiration
“As young South Africans, we must create opportunities for ourselves and others. It is essential that we work hard to drive this country’s knowledge economy through cutting-edge research. Nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it.”
— Dr Muthumuni Managa
Dr Managa’s story is more than personal achievement; it is a call to action. Her dedication to scientific research and community empowerment embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that South Africa—and the world—needs to tackle future challenges in water and sustainability.
For more information, visit the official Unisa website.
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