24 April 2025 | Story: Tayron Mhlongo | Photo: Sifiso Nomzaza
3 minutes read time.
The much-anticipated 2nd International Conference on Futuristic Materials for Sustainable Development Goals (FMSDG) 2025, hosted by the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences (FACS) at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) in collaboration with Chandigarh University (CU), India, showcased groundbreaking research and innovation aimed at advancing global sustainability. Held from 6 to 9 April 2025 at the scenic Emerald Resort Conference Centre in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa, the conference focused on the exploration, development, and application of advanced materials to address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This gathering brought together a diverse group of esteemed keynote speakers from across the globe, including Professor Rene Kizek from Motol University Hospital in the Czech Republic, Professor Kushal Qanungo from Chandigarh University in India, Professor Edward Nxumalo from the University of South Africa, Professor Olushola S Ayanda from Federal University Oye-Ekiti in Nigeria, and Professor Nokwanda Makunga from Stellenbosch University.
In keeping with its theme, the conference featured a range of practical research topics that covered literature reviews, methodologies, experimental results, limitations, and future research directions. These presentations were carefully aligned with the broader vision of sustainable materials development. Researchers and industry leaders shared their insights through plenary sessions, keynote addresses, oral presentations, and poster exhibitions, all of which underscored a strong commitment to tackling contemporary material science challenges and embracing the transformative potential of advanced technologies.
The subjects addressed were both timely and impactful, reflecting key breakthroughs enabled by emerging technologies. Each presentation highlighted the depth of research and the commitment of the presenters to advancing sustainability. Key discussions centred around environmentally responsible strategies and efficient resource use, while also emphasising the importance of data integrity and confidentiality in digital processes within the field.
Dr Speech Nelana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation and Internationalisation, described the event as “a vibrant platform for sharing ideas”. The conference truly fostered meaningful engagement and collaboration, allowing participants to reflect on the future of advanced materials and their role in sustainable development.
The event attracted around 120 delegates, with the next instalment of the FMSDG conference set to take place next year at Chandigarh University in India, continuing the collaborative efforts between VUT and CU. To celebrate excellence in research, the conference awarded prizes for outstanding oral and poster presentations. These recognitions served not only to honour individual achievement but also to encourage scholarly rigour and innovation.
Oral Presentation Winners
- Mr Mvula Goci – Vaal University of Technology
- Ms Nenzhelele Rendani – University of Johannesburg
- Ms Avoseh Folajimi – Vaal University of Technology
Poster Presentation Winners
- Ms Chauke Felicia – Vaal University of Technology
- Ms Hlaraka Joy – University of Johannesburg
- Ms Mthethwa Mandisa – Vaal University of Technology
- Ms Sitabule Apfiwaho – Vaal University of Technology
- Mr Leshabane Kokoti – Tshwane University of Technology
FMSDG 2025 has firmly positioned itself as a key driver of global innovation and collaboration in pursuit of sustainable development. By bringing together leading experts from around the world, the conference not only showcased cutting-edge research in material sciences but also inspired a shared vision for practical solutions that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
As the global community continues to evolve, the outcomes of this conference are poised to serve as a lasting beacon of progress, lighting the way towards a future where technology and nature coexist in balance. Its legacy is sure to inspire future generations to continue pushing boundaries in the ongoing quest for a better world.
