22 April 2025 | Story: Tayron Mhlongo and Ntando Ngomane| Photo: Peter Masela.
2 minutes read time.
On 4 April 2025, the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted a successful Tower Building Competition. This event not only showcased the creativity of its students but also underscored the significance of structural engineering in developing sustainable and resilient structures.
The competition brought together students from various faculties, with a particular focus on Civil Engineering. It was designed to challenge participants to think creatively and push the boundaries of engineering innovation by designing and constructing strong, sustainable towers using simple materials such as wooden sticks, glue, and box cutters.
Ms Mmatshepo Maina, a VUT alumna and practising structural engineer, brought immense value to the event as one of the judges. She shared her experiences in the field, highlighting the importance of curiosity and exploration in structural engineering. Ms Maina encouraged students to organise site visits to gain practical insight, emphasising that the durability and resilience of structures rely on thoughtful planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance. Her words resonated with many, inspiring students to delve deeper into the engineering world.
The competition was intense, with teams demonstrating remarkable creativity and technical skill. Towers were evaluated according to three key criteria: height, stability, and creativity. While the winning team received a cash prize, the true reward lay in the opportunity to explore new approaches to creating sustainable and innovative designs.
The Tower Building Competition proved to be more than just a contest. It was a celebration of human ingenuity and motivation. It illustrated that engineering can be both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating, encouraging students to think beyond conventional limits and aim for excellence. As the world advances towards more sustainable and resilient infrastructure, such events play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of engineers who will shape the built environment.
VUT acknowledges IStructE’s commitment to advancing engineering innovation and motivating students to pursue meaningful careers in engineering and related disciplines.
