SAICE Western Cape is saddened to hear of the passing of Emeritus Professor George Ekama, who passed away at the age of 73 on Sunday 19 February.
He obtained his BSc degree, a postgraduate diploma and a PhD degree in Engineering, all from the University of Cape Town (UCT). From 1978, he worked as a Research Officer at UCT and was a Professor of Water Quality Engineering at UCT’s Civil Engineering Department since 1991. In 2006, he received a National Research Foundation (NRF) A1-rating in recognition of his research in wastewater treatment systems and retained an A-rating ever since. In 2013, he was awarded the Order of Mapungubwe in Silver, for his “excellent research that has provided innovative solutions to enhancing and improving wastewater treatment”. In 2017 he was also recognised as an International Water Association Fellow.
Over the years he was at the forefront of developments in BNR activated sludge systems modelling, filamentous bulking, secondary settling tank design and modelling and anaerobic systems. He published over 170 research papers on these subjects and contributed to several International Water Association reports on sludge management and wastewater treatment. His advice was sought-after internationally, and he collaborated with international colleagues on solutions, such as using seawater to flush toilets, in water-stressed cities.
We are grateful to Emeritus Professor George Ekama for his remarkable contributions to the industry. Our condolences to his family.
