On January 5, 2026, the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) at Makerere University witnessed a remarkable academic milestone as Mr. Wangi Geoffrey Mario successfully defended his PhD dissertation. The public defense, held in the CEDAT New Board Room, marked the culmination of years of rigorous research and innovation in the field of water purification.
A Groundbreaking Study
Mr. Wangi’s dissertation, titled “Development of Zeolite-Based Nanocomposite Materials for Removal of Heavy Metals and Escherichia coli from Water”, addresses one of the most pressing challenges in Uganda and beyond: access to clean, safe water. His work explores advanced nanocomposite materials, harnessing the potential of zeolites to filter out harmful contaminants such as heavy metals and pathogenic bacteria. This research not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also offers practical solutions for communities grappling with unsafe water sources.
The Panel of Experts
The defense was presided over by a distinguished panel of scholars and professionals:
- Associate Professor Dorothy Okello, Dean of the School of Engineering, Makerere University
- Associate Professor Charles Nuwagaba, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Makerere University
- Dr. Philip Nyenje, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Makerere University
- Dr. Martin Kalibala, National Water and Sewerage Corporation
- Dr. Vienney Andrew Yiga, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Makerere University
Their collective expertise ensured a rigorous evaluation of the dissertation, while also highlighting the interdisciplinary importance of Mr. Wangi’s research.
Guidance and Mentorship
Behind this success stood dedicated supervisors: Associate Professor Peter W. Olupot from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Dr. Robinah Kulabako from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Their mentorship provided the academic scaffolding that enabled Mr. Wangi to navigate the complexities of nanotechnology and environmental engineering.
A Step Toward Sustainable Futures
The successful defense is more than an academic achievement, it is a beacon of hope for sustainable water management. With Uganda and many parts of the world facing challenges of water contamination, Mr. Wangi’s research offers innovative pathways to safer drinking water, improved public health, and environmental resilience.
As the applause echoed through the New Board Room, it was clear that this was not just the celebration of one scholar’s triumph, but a collective step forward in the pursuit of knowledge that directly impacts society.
Edited by Pius Kikomeko & Harriet Musinguzi
Posted by Isemaghendera Alex