The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), under the South African Research Infrastructure Roadmap (SARIR) programme, has partnered with the University of the Western Cape (UWC) to establish the newly refurbished Electrochemical Sensors Node of the Nano Micro Manufacturing Facility (NMMF) on the University’s main campus. This joint investment showcases the power of strategic partnerships in advancing scientific research infrastructure in South Africa.
The Electrochemical Sensors node of the NMMF will provide state-of-the-art capabilities and techniques for the design, synthesis, and analysis of organic and inorganic electroactive 'smart' nanomaterials. It will also enable the fabrication of chemo- and biosensor electrocatalytic systems and devices. This infrastructure will support researchers across South Africa in developing prototypes of electrochemical sensors for critical applications in water quality, food security, and agriculture.
The extensive expertise in electrochemistry available within UWC will be widely accessible to both academic and industry researchers partnering with the NMMF node. This collaborative model exemplifies how targeted public-private partnerships can cultivate world-class scientific facilities and foster cross-disciplinary knowledge exchange to address complex societal challenges. The launch of the NMMF represents an exciting milestone in strengthening South Africa's research and innovation ecosystem in promoting SDG 17 partnerships and special projects.
The node induction address was delivered jointly by Prof PGL Baker, SARCHi Chair in Analytical Systems and Processes for Priority and Emerging Contaminants (ASPPEC), Faculty of Natural Sciences (director), together with Prof C Arendse from the Department of Physics and Prof E Iwuoha, from the Department of Chemistry (co-directors). Prof Baker emphasised that microelectronics, microfabrication and nano-micro scale materials design becomes mandatory to meet the demands for electrochemically driven devices that respond within a challenging analytical context and that meet the demand for integration with the internet of things (IoT).
The opening address from Vice-Chancellor and Rector, Prof Tyrone Pretorius.
“The NMMF node empowers researchers by providing them with the resources they need to develop new devices and prototypes at the incredibly small scale of nano- and micro-technologies. This can lead to breakthroughs in fields like printed electronic sensors, diagnostics, and countless others. The NMMF is aligned with the goals of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0. By supporting research in these cutting-edge technologies, the NMMF will help South Africa stay competitive on the evolving global landscape.
South Africa lags in terms of global competitiveness. Leaders like Professor Iwuoha, Professor Baker, Professor Arendse - leaders who prioritise innovations - are the ones who drive transformative change that impacts industries and shapes the way we live and work. In one of his most well-known statements, Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, said: innovation distinguishes leaders from followers.
The launch today is merely a stepping stone towards a future where UWC continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of research and innovation in South Africa and beyond.”
Ribbon cutting ceremony of the newly refurbished Nano Micro Manufacturing Facility (NMMF).
