Meet Jonathan Olal Ogwang
“The satisfaction after the challenges are resolved is the best feeling. I could spend hours in the field until I figured out a solution to a problem”.
Let’s meet Jonathan Olal Ogwang, PhD student in the SAE group. Jonathan is originally from Uganda, and he studied Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. The goal of his research in the RUNRES project is to improve sanitation practices and waste management through the development of promising processes, such as anaerobic digestion, in Sub-Saharan Africa.
How would you describe yourself?
“I am a chill guy, and I like staying active and practicing sports. For this reason, I not only enjoy my work at the office, but I also love being outside, exploring beautiful and interesting places and getting to know awesome people.”
What is anaerobic digestion and how did you get interested in it?
“Anaerobic digestion is a natural process that happens in the absence of oxygen where organic materials are broken down by microorganisms to produce energy and fertilizer. I had a bit of experience related to this topic during high school, but it was my late bachelor’s experience that opened my eyes to it. It was exciting to see that it is possible to obtain a glass of drinkable water from toilet water. It is like magic! Also, a professor once told me «It seems you got bitten by the shit bug», and this humorously describes my passion and dedication to this topic.”
What do you like about people you work with?
“I like the diverse, empowering, and chill environment of the SAE group. Everyone here can express their individuality and, at the same time, focus on producing excellent work. As an engineer, I like the multidisciplinary nature of the group because I can learn many new things and explore different points of view.”
What is the value you see behind your research?
“I appreciate the possibility to dedicate my experience and motivation to developing sustainable services and infrastructure in countries and contexts where this is not only crucial but also urgent. “
If you are curious to know more about Jonathan’s research, visit the project website.
You can contact him via e-mail for more questions:
