Media Statement
01 March 2021
For Immediate Release

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) congratulates Professor Joshua Olowoyo for attaining a C2 Rating from the National Research Foundation. The rating is given to researchers as a recognition for having recently produced a body of quality work recognized by their peers. Prof Olowoyo was able to identify activities that are introducing trace metals in the environment including vehicular emissions and various industries, especially mining industries, which are responsible for introducing numerous hazardous metals into the environment.

“My research has also been able to demonstrate that humans are affected by the levels of trace metals in the environment. For instance, one of my research findings revealed elevated concentrations of toxic metals such as Pb, Cd and As in blood not only in occupationally exposed individuals but also in their immediate family members”, said Prof Olowoyo.

Interestingly, the research has also demonstrated that certain plants such as lichens and other higher plants have applications in biomonitoring the levels of these toxic metals in the environment.

Prof Olowoyo has vowed to continue working on emerging pollutants in the environment and their impact on human health with particular focus on women and children living within the vicinity of polluted or urban environments.

The number of NRF rated researchers and scientists at SMU is growing. Prof Olowoyo is attached to the SMU Biology department.

Issued by the Marketing & Communication
For more details, please contact Dr Eric Pule, email address eric.pule@smu.ac.za
Phone 012 521 4563 Cell: 0635035587
Website: www.smu.ac.za

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