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DUT HOSTS THE PROFESSORIAL INAUGURAL LECTURE OF PROFESSOR SHEENA KUMARI PILLAI
To celebrate Professor Sheena Kumari Pillai’s academic achievement and significant contributions to research, innovation and engagement, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted her Professorial Inaugural Lecture titled: Decoding the DNA of Wastewater for a Sustainable Environment, at the Coastlands Musgrave Hotel on Thursday, 7 March 2024.
The Programme Director was Mr Zwakele Ngubane,
DUT’s Director of the Advancement and Alumni
Relations Unit, who applauded Professor Kumari
Pillai for her dedication to research at the Institute
for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) at
DUT. Her expertise lies in biological wastewater treatment, wastewater microbiome, emerging pathogens and contaminants in wastewater.
Delivering the welcome remarks was the DUT Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola. He warmly welcomed the distinguished guests to the momentous occasion to celebrate the academic achievement of the now Full Professor Kumari Pillai.
Expanding on environmental sustainability, Professor Nemavhola pointed out that he hoped Professor Kumari Pillai during her presentation would touch on the benefits of wastewater as he was aware that wastewater carried a lot of nutrients. He also shared his concern on the daily use
of tons of fresh water to flush toilets by most households. Professor Nemavhola left the question with Professor Kumari Pillai on how this could be addressed as he felt it was a total waste of fresh water. He indicated that he had no doubts that Professor Kumari Pillai would assist in answering this question soon. He commended Professor Kumari Pillai for her significant contributions to the DUT research, innovation and technology advancements for the broader community.
Sharing his congratulatory message, Professor Nemavhola said: “As the DVC: Research Innovation, Engagement, I commend your efforts in contributing to the global knowledge base and making a lasting impact in your field. Your accomplishments reflect the values and aspirations of DUT, and we take great pride in your achievements. Your research also aligns with our ENVISION2030, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable practices and innovation. Once again, congratulations on reaching this
significant milestone. I look forward to witnessing the continued success and impact of your research in the years to come.”
IWWT Director Professor Faizal Bux introduced Professor Kumari Pillai, who the guests were eagerly awaiting to listen to her presentation. Professor Bux revealed that Professor Kumari Pillai joined IWWT as a Postdoctoral Fellow, a plant pathologist after completing her PhD from Mangalore University, India, in 2008. He revealed that during her 16 years at DUT, she has held various positions and was awarded the rank of Full Professor in January 2023.
“As the principal researcher on numerous institutional and external projects, Professor Kumari Pillai has played a critical role in advancing
Pictured: Professor Sheena Kumari Pillai during her Professorial Inauguration Lecture.
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DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY