A remarkable achievement has been accomplished by a dedicated team of students from Willow International School in Mozambique, who have been crowned the Best in Sub-Saharan Africa for their groundbreaking investigation into eliminating Methylene Blue from water through an effective and reusable method.
Driven by a deep sense of purpose, the Willow team has tirelessly worked to develop an environmental project with the potential to positively impact the lives of millions. Their ultimate objective is to raise awareness about water pollutants and devise a practical solution that can be replicated on a large scale, extending beyond the borders of Africa.
Methylene Blue, a prevalent water pollutant known for its detrimental effects on human health, caught the attention of the team. Comprised of Carla Zuleca Chissano, Christian Kelven Maússe Zicai, Lucas Machava, Malika Allure De Sousa E Nogueira, Shantel Massula Da Silva, and Thumisse Ribeiro Manhiça Penicela, the students recognized the shortcomings of conventional technologies used in wastewater treatment, especially in dealing with dyes. They identified the urgent need for an affordable alternative to safeguard our environment and well-being. Consequently, they conducted extensive tests to gauge the efficacy of Pyracantha coccinea, a perennial plant, in the removal of the dye.
The judges were thoroughly impressed with the team’s project, commending its focus, clarity, and strong relevance to the local context. Additionally, they recognized the potential of the students’ work to address a real problem faced by numerous countries worldwide.
The students had the opportunity to compete against 150 teams from across the globe in the esteemed Cambridge International Science Challenge, a platform that honors students actively engaged in developing sustainable solutions for real-world issues.
Now, the Willow team, alongside other Best in Region winners from around the world, eagerly awaits the announcement of the overall Best in the World award, scheduled for December. This recognition represents another significant milestone in their inspiring journey towards creating a cleaner and healthier future for all.
