WSU TO DRIVE INNOVATION IN NANO-MICRO MANUFACTURING

WSU has taken a significant step in advancing research and innovation in nanotechnology by becoming a key Node in South Africa’s National Nano-Micro Manufacturing Facility (NMMF).

The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) in February 2025 between WSU and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) through the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) marked this milestone.

Node Director and Specialist in nanomaterials science and technology, Dr Batsirai Magunje said: “The partnership with the CSIR represents a significant milestone for WSU and its Faculty of Natural Sciences. It provides access to world-class research infrastructure, facilitates collaboration with leading scientists, and strengthens WSU’s position in the national innovation ecosystem.”

The research emerging from WSU’s NMMF Node is expected to drive breakthroughs in sensor technologies, medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and energy-efficient devices.

“As a Node in the NMMF, WSU is tasked with developing and advancing nano-micro manufacturing technologies, particularly in materials science and sensor development. The university will focus on research areas such as printed electronics, advanced nanoparticle synthesis, special nano-based electronic ink development, and the application of nano-enabled solutions for various industries,” said Magunje.

Magunje added that WSU will benefit from being funded to secure advanced research infrastructure, leveraging the expertise of our research scientists who possess the requisite technical competence. This enhances the ability to engage in high-impact, interdisciplinary research, attract further funding, and develop technologies that contribute to South Africa’s socio-economic growth.

WSU aims to bridge the gap between research and commercialisation by supporting Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in utilising nano-micro manufacturing for product development.

“This initiative aligns with WSU’s commitment to applied research and innovation-driven solutions. It supports the university’s mission of addressing real-world challenges through science and technology while positioning WSU as a leader in emerging fields such as nanotechnology and micro manufacturing. Furthermore, it reinforces WSU’s strategic goal of fostering industry collaborations and commercialising research outputs,” said Magunje.

To ensure long-term sustainability, WSU is implementing a multi-faceted strategy, including securing research grants, fostering industry collaborations, and commercialising research outputs. This forward-thinking approach aims to position the university as a leader in nano-micro manufacturing, reinforcing its impact on technological advancements and economic growth.

“Financial sustainability is a priority, and we aim to generate income from sources beyond the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), targeting additional funding streams that could amount to several million Rand. Furthermore, the facility will play a crucial role in human capital development, with postgraduate students and interns benefiting from hands-on experience in cutting-edge nano-micro manufacturing technologies, positioning them for careers in research and industry,” concluded Magunje.

With this initiative, WSU is set to become a powerhouse in nanotechnology research, driving scientific progress and contributing to South Africa’s industrial innovation landscape.

By Anita Roji