“From a fascination with cars and technical problem-solving to academic recognition at VUT, Omolemo Tsitsi’s journey reflects determination, adaptability and a passion for engineering.”
22 September 2026 | Story by: Sadiki Siphiwe | Picture: Keitumetse Mokgope
4 minutes read time.
Long before he became an award-winning Mechanical Engineering graduate, Mr Omolemo Tsitsi was a curious boy from Mogwase who wanted to understand how things worked. Whether it was cars, machines or technical systems, he found himself fascinated by the mechanics behind everyday objects.
That curiosity has since developed into a promising engineering career and recently earned him recognition at the Vaal University of Technology’s (VUT) Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Awards.
Mr Tsitsi received the Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Award in the Diploma category in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology for his Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, which he completed with a 77.00% average. His achievement also earned him a bursary valued at R38,103.
Currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at VUT, Mr Tsitsi says his passion for engineering began during his school years.
Raised in Mogwase near Rustenburg in the North West Province, he attended Holy Family Primary School before enrolling at Hoërskool Tegniese Rustenburg. Encouraged by his parents and inspired by his love for Mathematics, technical activities and working with cars, he developed a clear ambition to become a Mechanical Engineer.
Recognising his interest and potential, his parents enrolled him at a technical high school where he gained exposure to practical skills and technical concepts that helped prepare him for his future studies.
When the time came to choose a university, VUT stood out because of its reputation for technology-focused and industry-relevant education.
His hard work has since translated into meaningful achievements. In addition to completing his Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, he has earned the professional designation of Candidate Engineering Technician and is now advancing his studies through an Advanced Diploma.
For Mr Tsitsi, being recognised at the Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Awards was one of the proudest moments of his academic journey.
“This award is one of the biggest achievements I have ever obtained in my life. It is a great honour and meaningful recognition of the hard work, dedication and commitment I have invested throughout my academic journey.”
While proud of the academic recognition, he views the award as representing more than examination results.
“It also reflects values such as consistency, dedication, teamwork, kindness, gratitude and humility.”
Mr Tsitsi credits the support of his parents, lecturers, mentors and friends for helping him reach this milestone.
“I am grateful to my parents, lecturers, mentors and friends I have made here at VUT, who have supported me throughout my journey.”
Like many engineering students, he faced challenges along the way. One of the biggest was adapting his study methods to meet the demands of different Mechanical Engineering modules, including Thermodynamics, Design, Mechanics of Machines, Engineering Drawing and Fluid Mechanics.
Rather than relying on a single approach, he learned to adapt his study techniques to suit each subject.
“I realised that I could not rely on one study method for every module and that I needed to understand what approach worked best for each subject.”
That lesson in adaptability became one of the most valuable parts of his journey and helped him remain focused when academic demands increased.
Receiving the award during VUT’s milestone 60th anniversary year made the achievement even more meaningful. The University’s connection to his family also runs deep. His brother completed a Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering at VUT and has since qualified as a Candidate Engineer.
“To receive this recognition as VUT celebrates 60 years of its history is truly meaningful to me.”
Looking ahead, Mr Tsitsi hopes to become a professionally recognised Mechanical Engineer and contribute meaningfully to the industry. One of his key goals is to obtain his Government Certificate of Competency (GCC), a qualification that will further strengthen his technical and professional capabilities.
His ambitions also extend beyond engineering practice.
“For me, earning a qualification should not mark the end of the journey, but rather the beginning of an opportunity to give back.”
He hopes to mentor future engineers, share knowledge and contribute to developing the next generation of engineering professionals.
From a young boy fascinated by cars and technical problem-solving to a Mechanical Engineering graduate and Candidate Engineering Technician, Mr Tsitsi’s story reflects the power of curiosity, determination and adaptability. While the Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Award marks a significant milestone, he sees it not as the destination, but as motivation to continue learning, innovating and making a meaningful contribution to the engineering profession.