Two undergraduate students from the University of South Florida had the opportunity to travel to Cape Coast, Ghana, to broaden their studies and research in environmental concerns. Students, Josephina Reyman and Julia Manser, were able to conduct research and help address the water and sanitation problems in Cape Coast. Although neither undergrad is a student at the Patel College of Global Sustainability, PCGS reached out before the trip to provide support by ensuring the students were properly prepared and ready for the process of international research.
The trip took place over the summer, during which Reyman and Manser spent five weeks researching in Ghana. The NSF-IRES project was established to tackle the water and sanitation challenges faced by the town of Cape Coast. Manser noted, “The majority of people in Cape Coast use well water for daily use,” indicating its importance for cooking, cleaning, bathing, and other daily activities. However, the proximity of Cape Coast to the ocean results in rising sea levels, causing saltwater infiltration of their groundwater wells, which can create major disruption to their everyday lives. Additionally, the septic tanks built next to wells in Ghana create nutrient pollution and harmful algae blooms.
Reyman and Manser worked with graduates from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and local high school students from Ghana National College (GNC). They were able to test five communities and 122 wells, evaluating the parameters of saltwater intrusion from samples taken at each community. The samples were subsequently taken to a laboratory for analysis of heavy metals and nutrient pollution. They developed a groundwater pollution model, discovering many communities had polluted water. After interviewing local residents, they also found that many refrained from drinking the water due to its excessive salinity and “strong odor.” The goal for these USF students was to educate the younger generation on water quality research while enhancing their own understanding of the topic. Ultimately, they were successful in their goals by engaging high school students in hands-on activities, utilizing probes and instruments to test the water, and providing informative demonstrations.
Manser elaborates on her experience, saying she “learned the privilege of safe, consistent drinking water.” Both Manser and Reyman observed the residents' water usage, noting that it could be cut off for extended periods, often leaving them without access to water. Many residents could not afford bottled or sachet water, forcing them to rely on contaminated well water as their only option. The USF students were able to expand their understanding of global citizenship and environmental challenges worldwide.
Reyman and Manser dedicated significant effort to secure this opportunity. Manser, majoring in Environmental Engineering, possesses extensive research on urban runoff and nutrient pollution. She works to “revitalize local dead ponds by developing infiltration systems” that lessen the entrance of nitrogen into water from urban runoff. Additionally, she has been honored with the 2024 William V. Storch award and serves as a project manager on the Engineers Without Borders Bolivia project, working with local communities to install toilets in underprivileged areas. Reyman, as the “Team Leader,” guided the U.S. students through their research. Working toward her master’s in Environmental Science and Policy with a concentration in wetlands and water, this project was perfect for her. Her work in the Ecohydrology Research Group also demonstrates Reyman’s impressive qualifications. Her other projects include work funded by EDP and FDEP agencies, where she was able to prioritize locations for septic-to-sewer conversions and contribute to other sustainability projects. She was able to fully immerse herself in a new culture while in Ghana, appreciating all the aspects Cape Coast had to offer.