In a significant achievement, Dr Caroline Rosemyya Kwawu, an Affiliate of The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) from Ghana, was honoured with the 2022 Research Grant from The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). This prestigious grant will enable her to conduct groundbreaking research on plant nanocellulose-derived hybrid composites for advanced energy storage applications. The funding opportunity was made possible by TWAS’ Research Grants Programme for Collaborative Grants, in collaboration with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). 

TWAS’ Research Grants Programme for Collaborative Grants was established with the vision of fostering collaborative research among scientists from developing countries. By connecting researchers with complementary skills and expertise, this program facilitates interdisciplinary projects aimed at addressing pressing global challenges. Dr Kwawu's project, which focuses on advanced energy storage applications, exemplifies the potential for transformative discoveries when high-level scientists unite their efforts. 

Through this grant, Dr Kwawu aims to explore plant nanocellulose-derived hybrid composites as a potential solution for advanced energy storage. With growing demands for renewable and sustainable technologies, her work could lead to efficient and eco-friendly energy storage applications. By harnessing the unique properties of nanocellulose, this promising research offers a potential pathway to a greener and more sustainable energy future.  

As an Affiliate of the AAS, Dr Kwawu was recognised for her significant contributions in computational chemistry. Her research focuses on using organic and inorganic materials to transform waste (like CO2, biomass, and solar energy) into valuable resources, addressing challenges related to climate change, energy scarcity, health, and environmental sustainability. By studying chemical processes in these contexts and collaborating with scientists worldwide, she offers insights that can lead to advancements in energy generation and storage technologies, as well as solutions for a greener and healthier world.