Sunyani Technical University (STU) has hosted a highly engaging public lecture titled “The Wonder of the Nano World in the Micro World,” delivered by Professor Samuel Oluwatobi Oluwafemi, a Professor of Nanotechnology at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
The lecture explored the synthesis, characterisation and wide-ranging applications of nanomaterials, particularly quantum dots and nanoparticles, in addressing critical challenges in healthcare, water purification, agriculture, food preservation, energy and environmental sustainability.
Professor Oluwafemi explained that nanomaterials are materials with at least one dimension below 100 nanometres and possess unique properties due to quantum confinement and large surface-to-volume ratios. He highlighted breakthroughs in water-based and environmentally friendly synthesis of quantum dots, noting that his research group has successfully reduced production time while improving stability and safety for biomedical use.
A major focus of the lecture was the application of nanotechnology in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Professor Oluwafemi discussed innovative approaches such as photothermal and photodynamic therapies, magnetic targeting and multifunctional nanoparticles capable of imaging, drug delivery and tumour ablation. He noted that several of these technologies have shown promising results in preclinical studies and international trials, with ongoing collaborations in Japan, France, Brazil and South Africa.
Beyond healthcare, the lecture showcased nanotechnology’s role in water purification, including dye removal, desalination and heavy-metal detection, as well as agricultural applications such as crop protection, food preservation and waste biomass valorisation.
The Vice-Chancellor of STU joined the programme virtually, demonstrating institutional support for applied and solution-driven research. The session was chaired by Professor Zoya, Dean of the Faculty of Built Environment and Applied Arts, who commended the lecture for highlighting African-led innovation with global impact.
The event brought together academic staff, postgraduate students, researchers and members of the public, reinforcing STU’s commitment to advancing science, innovation and sustainable development through knowledge sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration.