Esther SERIKI, an MSc student specialising in Water Resources Science, has achieved remarkable milestones throughout 2023. Engaging in a spectrum of activities, she has not only advanced her academic pursuits but also contributed significantly to community awareness and scientific discourse.

She actively participated in several training sessions and workshops, enhancing her expertise in the intricate field of Water Resources Science. Workshops such as Participatory GIS mapping workshop, Workshop for young professionals on the Efficacy of Nature-based solutions for disaster risk reduction in Africa, and Introduction to design-thinking for Climate Change Workshop. These educational endeavours aid in providing a nuanced understanding of the key drivers of ecological change and impacts on the ecosystem.

The year saw Esther make substantial contributions to academic conferences, where she presented groundbreaking research findings. Noteworthy was her participation in the 2023 Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists (SASAqS) Conference. Somerset West, South Africa, where their presentation on the Analysing equity dimensions of ecosystem (dis)service flows in the Kat River catchment garnered widespread acclaim.

Recognizing the importance of bridging the gap between research and the community, Esther actively engaged with grade 12 high school kids at Nathaniel Pamla High School, Peddie, Eastern Cape. Through informative sessions and collaborative initiatives, Esther taught the kids basic science in preparation for their matric examination. She also encouraged them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Esther believed that engaging young kids with science at an early age would help them develop an interest in these subjects and encourage them to pursue them in the future.

In conclusion, her journey through 2023 has been marked by a dedication to academic excellence, a commitment to community engagement, and a passion for advancing the understanding of ecological changes and equity in the flow of ecosystem services in the Kat River catchment. As we look forward to the coming years, Esther's contributions are sure to shape the discourse in Water Resources Science and leave a legacy.

2023 Rhodes University Centre for Postgraduate Studies Conference.

2023 Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists (SASAqS) Conference.

Last Modified: Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:49:06 SAST