“The Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering at VUT hosted a successful First Year Meet and Greet, where alumni shared insights, and students received guidance on career paths, innovation, and academic resources to support their journey toward becoming future engineers.”
22 September 2025 | Story By: Tayron Mhlongo | Picture: Sifiso Nomzaza
2 minutes read time.
On 19 September 2025, the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CME) within the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) proudly hosted its First Year Meet and Greet. This event brought together alumni from diverse industries, laying a strong foundation for first-year students as they begin their journeys to becoming future chemical and metallurgical engineers.
Professor Kabuba Tshilenge, Head of Department, opened the gathering with a powerful message: “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress and working together is success.” He emphasised that the event was about envisioning collective future achievements. With alumni sharing their knowledge and experiences, first-year students were encouraged to believe in their potential and embrace future possibilities.
The Department’s student structures, the Society of Chemical Engineering Students (SoChES) and the Metallurgical Engineering Student Society (METESSO), played an instrumental role in the event. Both societies are central to bridging academic theory with real-world practice, offering networking and career development opportunities, and promoting innovation within their respective disciplines at VUT.
Students were urged to look beyond career paths and consider themselves as innovators and change-makers within their industries. They were inspired to explore entrepreneurial opportunities and interdisciplinary ventures, extending their vision beyond traditional engineering roles.
Ms Piling Maetla, Academic Advisor for the department, highlighted the resources available to students, stressing their accessibility and value in maximising learning and professional growth.
The Meet and Greet was ultimately an enriching and motivational session, reinforcing resilience and focus among first-year students. Despite challenges they may encounter, the event underscored that their goals are within reach through dedication and determination. It set a promising tone for both their academic and professional journeys ahead.