Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has once again proven its commitment to nurturing world-class talent in scientific innovation. Mbali Aurriccah Moreki, a Master of Science (MSc) student in Chemistry, has made headlines by winning first prize for Best Oral Presentation in the M.Sc. Advancing Science and Technology for Human Development category at the prestigious Annual Young Scientists Conference. The event celebrated the brightest minds in South Africa, with Moreki’s research on water remediation standing out as a beacon of hope for environmental sustainability.
Mbali Aurriccah Moreki
Moreki’s award-winning research, titled: “Synthesis, Characterisation, and Photo-Catalytic Degradation of Rhodamine 6G using Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles,” offers innovative solutions to one of the country’s most pressing issues—water pollution. The research focuses on the application of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles as a photocatalyst to degrade Rhodamine 6G, a harmful dye commonly found in industrial wastewater. With South Africa’s growing concerns around water scarcity, this breakthrough offers promising potential for large-scale water purification systems.
Under the expert guidance of Dr Nomasonto Rapulenyane, Dr Charmaine Tshangana, and Dr Gauta Gold Matlou, Moreki has meticulously developed a process that successfully degrades the dye by up to 88% under visible light at neutral pH, a significant improvement on traditional methods. “This has promising implications for water purification techniques, especially in a water-scarce country like South Africa,” says Moreki, highlighting the relevance of her work to local and global environmental challenges.
Her success at the conference is a culmination of years of dedication, overcoming both academic and personal obstacles. Born and raised in Ga-Rankuwa, Moreki’s academic path was not always clear-cut. Initially aspiring to become a medical doctor or astronaut, she found her true calling in chemistry and environmental research after joining SMU in 2019. “Science is fair; hard work always pays off,” she reflects, underscoring the discipline and determination that have led her to this moment.
The win is a personal achievement for Moreki and a testament to SMU’s ability to foster top-tier research talent. “Presenting at the conference was both terrifying and exhilarating,” Moreki recalls. “I was especially nervous about disappointing my supervisors and family, but once I began speaking, the words just flowed. The most challenging part was the Q&A session, but the audience was kind and patient, which helped me push through.” This resilience and ability to thrive under pressure mirrors the broader ethos of SMU, which consistently supports its students to excel on global platforms.
Outside of her scientific achievements, Moreki is a writer of historical fiction, having penned over 90 short stories over the past decade, with plans to publish soon. Her diverse interests, however, do not overshadow her dedication to scientific advancement. “My long-term goal is to perfect my photocatalyst system and develop membranes that can purify water on a larger scale,” she states. Moreki also envisions herself as a professor and owner of a science school, dedicated to nurturing future scientists who will tackle the world’s environmental challenges.
Moreki’s victory at the Annual Young Scientists Conference highlights the growing reputation of SMU as a leading institution for cutting-edge research and innovation in chemistry and environmental science. Her award-winning research demonstrates the university’s commitment to addressing urgent societal issues and sets a new benchmark for the transformative power of young, passionate researchers. As she continues to make strides in the field of water purification, SMU’s legacy as a hub for scientific excellence is stronger than ever.
