South Africa’s next generation of scientists is turning cutting-edge innovation into practical solutions for one of the country’s most urgent challenges: ensuring sustainable water supplies and safe sanitation in the face of climate change.
Researchers from across the country will gather at the Academy of Science of South Africa’s (ASSAf) Annual Young Scientist Conference (AYSC), taking place from 13–15 September 2026 at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu’s Mthatha Campus in the Eastern Cape. The conference is themed “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”
The event will showcase pioneering research by young scientists who are harnessing advanced technologies to strengthen water security, environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Among the innovations on display is AquaGuard, a smart robotic system designed to detect water leaks and prevent illegal water connections in informal settlements. Other researchers are developing technologies to remove pharmaceutical residues and heavy metals from water sources, while applying artificial intelligence, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies to improve groundwater management and monitor water resources.
The conference highlights how science and technology can provide practical responses to growing water challenges. Research presentations will cover water filtration, wastewater treatment, contamination detection, groundwater security, water monitoring and sustainable sanitation systems, alongside advances in nanotechnology, biotechnology and digital innovation.
Climate change remains a central focus of the discussions. Young scientists are investigating droughts, extreme weather events, river biodiversity and climate-smart agricultural practices to better understand how communities and ecosystems can adapt to a warming world. Research projects also explore rainwater harvesting, non-perennial rivers and strategies to strengthen the resilience of smallholder farmers.
Beyond scientific discovery, the conference is placing strong emphasis on translating evidence into policy action. A dedicated “Science-for-Policy in Action” session will challenge participants to develop evidence-based responses to real-world policy problems. Working in teams, researchers will prepare recommendations and present them through a simulated Cabinet briefing before engaging with experts in a panel discussion.
“Young scientists have an important role to play in shaping solutions to the challenges facing South Africa and our continent,” said Prof Himla Soodyall, Executive Officer of ASSAf. “This conference gives them a space to share their research, challenge ideas and explore how science can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
The opening programme features leading figures from academia, government and science, including Prof Thandi Mgwebi, Vice-Chancellor of iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu; Prof Abel Ramoelo of the South African National Space Agency (SANSA); Prof Maurine Musie, Co-chair of the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS); Ms Lusizo Makhubela, Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation; and Prof Albert Modi, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu.
Participants will also visit a local water treatment plant, providing an opportunity to connect scientific research with the practical realities of water management and service delivery.
Supported by iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu, SANSA, SAYAS and the OR Tambo District Municipality, the conference underscores the critical role of young scientists in advancing solutions for water security and sustainable development.
As South Africa confronts mounting pressures from climate change, population growth and water scarcity, the innovations emerging from the country’s young scientific community offer hope that science, technology and evidence-based policymaking can help build a more water-secure and climate-resilient future for Africa.