Being distinctive, creative and impactful is what drives the dynamic scientific lass, Ms Nomthandazo Precious Sibiya. The unwavering dedication, hard work and passion has propelled her to be given the opportunity to be chosen as one of seven awardees for the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science South African National Programme. She was awarded in the doctoral category which recognises young female scientists annually.
“I am still in stock to be chosen as one of seven awardees including three post-doctoral, out of 140 applicants. This achievement brings pride to the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment and the entire university. I hope this dedication, hard work, and excellence set a benchmark for others,” beamed Sibiya.
The sixth edition of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science South African National Programme aims to promote and encourage young women in science. This programme identifies and rewards talented young female scientists in the field of Formal Sciences, Life Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Physical Sciences, Engineering and Technological Sciences.
Speaking on her academic journey at DUT, Sibiya shared that she is a sustainable development researcher with more than four years of experience covering the research of wastewater treatment projects aimed at achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
In 2018, Sibiya obtained her Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering from DUT with Cum Laude. She further attained her Master of Engineering (MEng) degree with Cum Laude and the prestigious Dean’s merit award in 2022. She holds a white belt in Lean Six Sigma and a certificate in project management. In 2021, she took part in the Erasmus Student Exchange Programme where she spent five months at the University of Valladolid, Spain. She is pursuing her second year-PhD (DEng: Chemical Engineering) studies at DUT. Further to this, she is a part of DUT’s academic mentorship programme called Grow Your Own Timber (GOOT), where she is being trained as a lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering. Her research skills have showed exceptional academic success and the capacity to significantly contribute to the International System of Innovation. Her scientific efforts have been honoured several times, including by the National Research Foundation with the 2023 NRF Research Excellence Award for Next Generation Researchers. She also acquired two awards in the whole Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment for 2022; (1) best graduating student and (2) Master student of the year.
In terms of how she got to hear of the esteemed competition, Sibiya highlighted that the call was shared by Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni who was then the Acting Dean in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, around May 2024.
For Sibiya, it was the first time she had applied for this programme. She explained that she was so overwhelmed with this award.
“When we spoke to one of the selecting committee (Prof Patience Mthunzi-Kufa), on the 26th September 2024, a session prior to award ceremony, she said, it was their first time facing difficulties in selecting awardees. It was a tough competition, but she said they choose their projects based on the relevancy. During COVID-19, they would choose those related to the virus. It took them three meetings to decide who is deserving.”
Based on the conversation with Prof Mthunzi-Kufa, Sibiya said winning the award was overwhelming. “This accomplishment aligns perfectly with our ENVISION2030 strategy, which promotes innovation, research, and excellence across all disciplines. This success demonstrates the positive impact of our collective efforts toward this vision.
The elated Sibiya has won an R80 000 scholarship and a trip to Benin, Cotonou to attend the week-long FWIS SSA programme together with laurates from the Sub-Saharan Africa region, is scheduled for December 2024.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to my supervisor Prof Sudesh Rathilal and my co-supervisor Dr Thembisile Mahlangu for their constant support. Without their effort this would not be possible. Not forgetting my two important persons in my life; my dearest husband, Mr Khanyisani Dlomo and my lovely daughter Ms Ongeziwe Dlomo,” she professed.
Sibiya’s academic journey has been a learning experience for her, and the achievement of this award has energised and motivated her to pursue new and diligently projects that will help her nation and the university.
“Anyone who has lost hope should look at my path and believe that if I can do it, so can they. I am excited to continue advancing research that makes a tangible difference in our world,” she said.
Pictured: Awardee, Ms Nomthandazo Precious Sibiya, her husband Mr Khanyisani Dlomo and Michelle Gololo, (Corporate Affairs and Engagement Lead L’Oréal-UNESCO FWIS (SA) Programme Manager), at the ceremony held at Sandton Hotel on the 26th September 2024.
Waheeda Peters
