Catalysis and Engineering: Advancing Sustainable Technologies

A sustainable, defossilized economy by 2050 is not just a policy goal - it is an engineering challenge.

Hosted by the University of Cape Town (UCT) and organised by African Youth Ignited 4IR as part of the TechWomen Impact trip, we convened a high-level panel to discuss the role of catalysis in the global energy transition. Moderated by Prof. Nico Fischer, Head of the Catalysis Institute, the dialogue connected female postgraduate students with global renewable energy experts: Fatma Telib (Egypt) and Laura Draxler (Silicon Valley), alongside UCT research leaders Ziba Rajan, Dr. Darja Susac, and Prof. Dr. Patricia Kooyman.

Panelists examined how catalysis underpins renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency improvements, and the broader transition to Net Zero by 2050.

MerSETA, represented by Regional Manager Bronwyn Abrahams, outlined how the organisation supports university research, skills development, and laboratory upgrades to help students translate ideas into functional, industry-aligned prototypes.

The TechWomen experts toured the Catalysis Institute laboratories, noting the important work underway and the innovative capacity of UCT researchers. The visit highlighted the value of strong research, modern facilities, and international collaboration in advancing sustainable technology solutions.

Impact in engineering emerges when research, practical application, and industry-aligned skills converge.

African Youth Ignited 4IR is honoured to orchestrate dialogues where global collaboration can thrive, allowing cross-country experts to exchange insights and knowledge. Female engineers had the opportunity to engage with TechWomen renewable energy experts on innovation, funding, skills development, prototyping, and collaboration. We thank TechWomen, MerSETA, and UCT experts for their support in advancing South Africa’s contribution to the global green economy.