Aslihan Babayigit receives FWO Climate Award

On Wednesday July 1st, our colleague Aslihan Babayigit was awarded the prestigious FWO Climate Award for her groundbreaking research, driven by a truly social heartbeat.

At IUMAT, we believe that meaningful scientific innovation must have sustainability at its absolute core. Real-world solutions are born when we dare to cross disciplines and borders. The Solar Cookers 4 All project embodies this mission perfectly. Researchers from UHasselt and Université de Lubumbashi are working hand-in-hand to develop affordable, locally manufactured solar cookers. By offering a clean, sustainable alternative to charcoal, this research directly tackles deforestation and carbon emissions while improving daily lives. Every step of the project has been shaped by shared knowledge, co-creation and a commitment to sustainable development and tangible societal impact.

This Climate Award is a proud recognition that belongs to an entire ecosystem: a dedicated team of researchers, students, community partners and stakeholders across continents and disciplines. Congratulations to the entire team!