Celebrating the Engineering Field at UNIZULU’s First Engineering Week
The Department of Engineering at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) this week kicked off Engineering Week with great vigour and a clear mission to celebrate and promote the engineering profession.
A first for the institution, the four-day programme was held at the Richards Bay Campus. started on high gear, with an opening ceremony aimed at motivating both current students and aspiring engineers.
Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning Professor Pragasen Mudali emphasised the importance of engineering in solving real-world problems and driving innovation. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as students, faculty, and industry professionals gathered to share their passion for engineering.
The highlight of the day was the keynote addresses by two distinguished guest speakers: Dr Derek Fish, Director of the UNIZULU Science Centre, and Nicole Seumangal, a senior asset improvement engineer from Tronox. Both speakers focused on the theme of curiosity, a fundamental trait for any successful engineer.
Dr Fish captivated the audience with his insights into how curiosity drives innovation. He shared stories from his own career, illustrating how asking the right questions and being curious about the world around us can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. He also expressed his delight at the opening of the Department of Engineering at UNIZULU.
“I want to really congratulate UNIZULU. This is the third engineering (department) to be opened in South Africa in many decades. It is a wonderful achievement for UNIZULU,” said Dr Fish.
Seumangal followed with an inspiring talk about her journey in the engineering world. She highlighted how curiosity had been a guiding force in her career, leading her to explore new technologies. The speaker also stressed the importance of staying curious and open-minded, even in the face of challenges.
The opening ceremony set the tone for the rest of the week, promising more insightful sessions and opportunities for learning and growth.
– Sbahle Dumakude
Picture: Xolani Ncube