Childhood memories of water shortages inspired PhD study

Namibian Maria Nelago Kanyama’s science dream could have been derailed by the death of her mother during her final high school examination, but the determination not to disappoint her legacy helped her to prevail.

She is now harnessing the power of machine learning and blockchain technologies to solve water challenges in her country – a field of study in which her contribution has been noticed – and recognised.

Kanyama was recently named as one of the 30 winners of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talent Sub-Saharan Africa Awards.

Kanyama is based at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), where she is pursuing a PhD in computer science with a specialisation in Integrated Water Resources Management, or IWRM.

Her academic journey also began at NUST, where she earned her first degree, a bachelor of engineering in electronics and telecommunication. During her undergraduate years, her fascination with water was ignited when she developed a smart greenhouse irrigation system as part of her final-year project.

Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the realm of water-related technologies, Kanyama’s quest for knowledge in this field led her to pursue a masters in electronics and computer engineering, specialising in water networks, at the University of Namibia.

Committed to honing her skills and knowledge in her home country, Namibia, Kanyama’s educational endeavours have been centred there, fostering a profound connection to her roots.

Despite initial challenges in securing employment after obtaining her first degree, her unwavering dedication to her field and her passion for innovation propelled her to pursue her next goal in higher education, paving the way for her to become an innovative water expert.

She spoke to University World News about being a scientist and the road that took her there.

UWN: You said you are committed to honing your skills and knowledge in your home country. Why are you saying home – speaking about Namibia’s universities – is best?

MNK: Expressing my commitment to refining my skills and knowledge within Namibia stems from a profound belief in the untapped potential of our home country’s universities.

While misconceptions prevail about the superiority of education abroad, in developing countries like Namibia, I have witnessed the contrary. Despite the prevailing notion, I firmly believe that some of the best education is found right here.

Namibia, as a developing nation, has, unfortunately, seen a trend where aspiring engineers and medical professionals often opt to seek education abroad. In contrast, I have chosen to pursue and acquire the pinnacle of expertise in my field right here in Namibia.

My journey has been shaped by the guidance of exceptional professors whom I deeply admire. Diversity remains a significant consideration, and I have had the privilege of being educated by our nation’s top universities, namely the University of Namibia and the Namibia University of Science and Technology.

My gratitude extends to these institutions for affording me the opportunity to become a locally made Namibian electronic and computer engineer. It is not merely about resisting the allure of foreign education; it is about acknowledging and embracing the excellence that our own academic institutions foster.

Choosing to stay and contribute to the advancement of knowledge within Namibia is my way of reinforcing the belief that, indeed, home is where the best education resides.

UWN: Tell us about the research you are undertaking that has been recognised through the L'Oréal-UNESCO award.

MNK: My mentors and I are working collaboratively with the goal of harnessing the power of machine learning and blockchain technologies.

Our objective is to create a system capable of identifying anomalies such as leakages, meter malfunctions, instances of water theft, and tampering within water utilities. This initiative is especially crucial, considering the projected water stress in Sub-Saharan Africa due to the effects of climate change.

Our aim is to conserve and safeguard the precious water resources available by implementing a proactive detection and response model. In Namibia, the detection of these anomalies currently relies on human observation.

However, recognising the global shift towards digitisation, our focus is on developing innovative solutions that leverage disruptive technologies.

By integrating machine learning and blockchain, we aim to provide a more efficient, timely and cost-effective means of identifying and promptly addressing these issues within water utilities.

This initiative holds the potential to significantly save both the water utility companies and customers valuable resources in terms of finances and time.

It’s our commitment to utilise these cutting-edge technologies, not just for the sake of innovation, but also to create real-world impact by ensuring the efficient management and conservation of water resources in the face of imminent challenges posed by climate change.

UWN: What motivated you to transform yourself into a water expert?

MNK: My upbringing in a village where we often faced water shortages due to pipe bursts has been a driving force behind my determination to effect positive change.

This personal experience has fuelled my passion for making a tangible impact. My ultimate goal is to offer solutions that address the critical issues faced by communities, particularly in ensuring access to reliable water sources.

UWN: In what other ways can water challenges posed by climate change be tackled?

MNK: Addressing the intricate water challenges brought about by climate change demands a multifaceted strategy that extends beyond traditional approaches. One pivotal avenue for transformative change lies in the digitisation of the water sector.

In this era of rapid technological advancement, ensuring ready access to high-quality data becomes paramount. This data, sourced from diverse outlets, forms the bedrock for constructing sophisticated models capable of predicting and detecting variations in water patterns.

The integration of digitisation into the water sector heralds a new era of proactive management. The power of digitisation unfolds through real-time monitoring, enabling precise analysis and swift responses to the dynamic shifts in water ecosystems.

Advanced technologies, such as sensors and Internet of Things devices, play a pivotal role in enhancing data collection. This not only facilitates a comprehensive understanding of water systems, but also lays the groundwork for informed decision-making.

Harnessing the capabilities of digitisation empowers stakeholders to implement adaptive strategies tailored to the evolving challenges posed by climate-induced shifts in water dynamics.

The real-time insights garnered through digitised systems enable authorities to optimise resource allocation, enhance water management practices, and effectively mitigate the far-reaching impacts of climate change on water resources.

In essence, the fusion of technology and water management not only modernises the sector but also equips decision-makers with the tools needed to address climate-induced water challenges comprehensively.

This paradigm shift towards digitisation serves as a cornerstone in building resilience and sustainability within water management practices in the face of an ever-changing climate landscape.

UWN: You have previously said you faced discrimination as a woman in your career. Please tell us about it.

MNK: Initially aspiring to become a pilot, I found my path leading to electronics engineering, landing me a job as an air traffic electronic engineer.

This trajectory allowed me to merge my passion for aviation with Integrated Water Resource Management, creating a unique and fulfilling blend of interests.

However, the workplace presented challenges in the form of gender bias and discrimination. Being a female engineer in a male-dominated field, I encountered prejudices that questioned my capabilities and marginalised me, hindering my integration and confidence.

Experiencing a sense of exclusion compounded by instances of the ‘queen bee syndrome’, in which support and inclusion were lacking made the environment less conducive to growth and success. Throughout these struggles, maintaining a focus on my science dream required intentional effort.

Finding supportive mentors, friends who shared similar aspirations and staying true to my purpose became crucial pillars of support. I recognised that people might attempt to undermine my ambitions, but I refused to let their actions derail my path.

I’ve learned that preserving one’s dreams demands resilience and a constant reminder of the bigger picture. Keeping my purpose in sight, I strove to overcome hurdles, holding onto my aspirations despite adversities. It’s essential not to let detractors dictate the trajectory of one’s dreams.

UWN: Is there anything that nearly derailed your science career, and how did you handle it?

MNK: Despite facing significant hurdles in various facets of my life, including personal loss and gender bias in my career, I’ve remained steadfast in pursuing my science dream.

The loss of my mother during my final high school exams could have been a major setback, but her resilience and hard work instilled in me a drive to succeed. I was fortunate to secure a place in university along with a bursary, driven by my determination not to disappoint her legacy.

UWN What must be done to bring more women into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields and root out discrimination against them at the workplace and in institutions of higher learning?

MNK: A comprehensive and dynamic approach is imperative. Central to this endeavour is the elevation of awareness and the provision of education on diverse scientific disciplines.

Strategic initiatives, such as hackathons directed at addressing everyday challenges through science, can serve as instrumental catalysts for change.

Simultaneously, actively engaging with younger generations through school visits becomes pivotal, offering a first-hand glimpse into the marvels of science and inspiring a new wave of diverse talent. Transitioning to the challenge of dismantling discrimination, proactive measures must take centre stage.

The implementation of comprehensive diversity and inclusion programmes is pivotal, fostering a culture steeped in respect and equality. Regular diversity training for both employees and students becomes a linchpin, promoting heightened awareness and sensitivity.

Establishing transparent and unbiased hiring and promotion processes is foundational, ensuring that opportunities hinge on merit rather than gender.

Tailored mentorship and networking programmes designed to bolster women in STEM play a crucial role, breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity.

Institutionally, a critical evaluation and revision of policies are necessary to eliminate gender-based biases and establish frameworks that champion fairness.

Tackling gender pay gaps emerges as a vital step in ensuring equitable compensation for equal work. True transformation requires commitment across all levels, from leadership to individual team members.

Encouraging open dialogue and addressing concerns promptly contribute significantly to dismantling discrimination and nurturing a supportive, inclusive environment.

UWN: Where do you see yourself five years from now?

MNK: I project myself as an esteemed authority within the intersection of computer science and water or wastewater technologies. This vision propels me into the realms of innovation and creativity, where I aim to seamlessly translate cutting-edge research into practical solutions that directly address tangible, real-life challenges.

The fruition of my current PhD work holds a special place in this trajectory, as I eagerly anticipate witnessing its transformation into impactful solutions that bridge the divide between theoretical concepts and practical applications.

Beyond personal accomplishments, I am fuelled by a passion for mentorship, aspiring to guide and inspire the younger generation. I envision sharing my experiences to convey a powerful message: that, in this vast world, one can authentically become anything one desires.

As I carve out my path in water and wastewater technologies within the realm of computer science, I aim to not only contribute significantly to the field, but, also, to impart knowledge and motivation to those who will shape the future of scientific innovation.