SAIMechE student chapter launched

Students from the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering enthusiastically launched their very own SAIMechE student chapter, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey and commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the field.

This chapter, affiliated with the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE), is dedicated to empowering mechanical and mechatronic engineering students by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world industry experience. The President of SAIMechE, Mishael Mashele, delivered an inspiring keynote address. Uncel Mhelembe, the Chief Executive Officer of SAIMechE, presented an overview of SAIMechE, highlighting the engineering opportunities that await and inspiring the students to reach their full potential.

The marketing officer of the Student Chapter, Asanda Donono, was “very impressed and excited about the launch because it was our first ever roadshow since we established the SAIMechE CPUT Student chapter”. “We did not expect the CEO of SAIMechE, Mr Uncel Mhelembe, to come with the President of SAIMechE, Mr Mishael Mashele.”

Asanda, a first-year student in Mechanical Engineering, mentioned that the SAIMechE Student Chapter can greatly benefit students by providing practical experience and skill development. Students will have the opportunity to gain firsthand experience through industry site visits, allowing them to learn about real-world work, enhance their resumes, and improve their skills. Asanda also emphasised that the chapter will offer professional networking and career opportunities for students.

“This is where students can gain access to career opportunities like internships and vacation training, as well as information on bursaries that are offered to SAIMechE members.”

 She stated that the chapter can educate students about the importance of professional development and registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). "I believe that the SAIMechE Student Chapter is a unique opportunity that can significantly benefit students pursuing degrees in Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering. I am honoured to be part of the committee, as it puts us in the spotlight and allows us to engage more with industry professionals. This chapter offers numerous opportunities for students."

Vuyani Moni, Lecturer: Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, said the professional engineering practitioners in the discipline of mechanical and mechatronic are also affiliated with SAIMechE as part of their professionalism and growth, “so it makes sense to belong in SAIMechE at an early age”.

The chapter will provide networking opportunities with professionals, host workshops on industry trends, facilitate site visits, recommend available trainings, and offer mentorship to help students develop their technical skills and build career connections.

“It will improve professionalism for our students and make it easy for them to register and grow in areas of specialisations as it has now become a trend,” he said.

Moni said other institutions that are offering mechanical, and mechatronics courses have similar student chapters. 

“I feel very good about this programme for the benefit of our students to hone their skills and improve their marketability in their discipline. It comes at the right time when there is legislation for all engineering practitioners to be professionally registered. So, this will assist with that exposure from the grassroots level so that our students are not left behind.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: BoyceAp@cput.ac.za