Keletso Monareng, a PhD candidate in Physics at the University of Limpopo, was recognised at the 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards for her research on developing clean, affordable energy technologies that offer sustainable alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. Photos: Supplied
By Johannes Selepe – Mosela.selepe@ul.ac.za
Keletso Monareng, a PhD candidate in Physics at the University of Limpopo (UL), has been recognised as one of the winners of the annual L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards 2025 in Gauteng recently
The awards celebrate exceptional female scientists whose innovative research addresses Africa’s most pressing challenges, including cancer care, infectious diseases, clean water, sustainable energy, and environmental conservation.
“With this year’s eight remarkable awardees, the programme honours a total of 50 female scientists, marking a significant milestone that reflects an investment of approximately R5 million,” said Serge Sacre, CEO of L’Oréal South Africa.
He added: “Investing in women in STEM is not just a matter of fairness; it is a strategic imperative for South Africa’s future. When women scientists are empowered, their innovations resonate throughout communities, economies, and ecosystems.”
Monareng’s recognition highlights her pioneering research in computational materials science, where she utilises machine learning to accelerate the discovery of next-generation sodium-ion battery materials—a field with the potential to revolutionise global energy storage.
Born and raised in Ga-Sekororo Village, near Tzaneen in Limpopo’s Mopani District, Monareng’s journey is driven by determination and curiosity. “I have always been fascinated by how science can provide sustainable solutions to everyday problems,” she said. “My research aims to develop clean and affordable energy technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while offering reliable alternatives to lithium-ion batteries.”
