Various VUT engineering chapters join forces to reignite students’ enthusiasm for the field
18 October 2024 | STORY Tayron Mhlongo. PHOTO VUT.
The South African Institute of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE), Building and Construction Society Organization (BCESO), Women in Engineering (WomEng), Society of Chemical Engineering Students (SOCHES), Operations Management and Industrial Engineering Students Society (OMIESSO), and Metallurgical Engineering Student Society (METESSO) at Vaal University of Technology (VUT) recently came together to host Engineering Day.
These engineering student chapters took the initiative to invite industry experts from Penetron, Eskom, and Torrecid, to encourage students to persevere through the challenges they may face during their academic journeys, reminding them not to lose sight of their purpose. As the day proceeded, engineering students were reminded that the future is in their hands and that they have the power to engineer it.
“This year’s motivation to support engineering students stems from the challenges they faced academically and the pressure they experienced. The goal is to help them relax and reconnect with their chosen fields, reigniting their passion for engineering,” said the chairperson of SAIMechE, Eugine Matlala.
The event featured a panel discussion with industry professionals who shared insights into the diverse and versatile nature of engineering. They highlighted the workings of their respective industries and what students can expect as they transition into their engineering careers.
The chapters acknowledged the support from the management of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at VUT, which helped by reducing workloads and postponing test dates to facilitate this event. They also recognized the contributions of Student Support Services (SSS) in ensuring everything runs smoothly.
As the day unfolded, students were encouraged to utilize the services offered by the Centre for Academic Development (CAD) and Student Counselling to manage academic pressures and seek academic advice when needed.
The collaboration among these student chapters aimed to serve as a beacon of hope and a support system, reinforcing the idea that they are not alone in their experiences and will overcome any obstacles together.