On 14 August 2026, the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) officially launched a new Student Chapter at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT). Dr Kavita Behara, a Lecturer in the Department of Electrical Engineering, highlighted that the primary purpose of the new chapter is to champion professional development and bridge the crucial gap between lecture halls and industry practice.
The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Dr Richard Chidzonga, said the occasion marks an important step in strengthening the connection between “our students, the engineering profession, industry and the broader electrical engineering community. To our students, I want to say please take full advantage of this opportunity. Your university qualification is extremely important. But becoming a successful engineer requires more than passing examinations. You need to develop professional networks, communication skills, leadership abilities, ethical awareness, teamwork and an understanding of how the engineering profession operates. That is where the SAIEE Students Chapter can make a significant difference. I therefore strongly encourage every Electrical Engineering student to join the Students Chapter and, more importantly, to participate actively in its programmes,” said Dr Chidzonga.
The newly established SAIEE MUT Student Chapter (SAIEE MUT SC) has set out clear foundational pillars to guide its journey. The chapter aims to develop competent, innovative electrical engineering professionals that are equipped to contribute meaningfully to South Africa and the global community. To bring these goals to life, the SAIEE MUT SC will roll out a dynamic calendar of activities, including technical talks, workshops, site visits, competitions, and direct industry engagements; structured mentorship and networking programmes connecting students with experienced practitioners; and practical initiatives designed to reinforce technical proficiencies and emphasize the importance of professional registration, ethics, and community involvement.
The launch marks an exciting milestone for MUT’s Faculty of Engineering, promising a vibrant platform to nurture the next generation of industry-ready engineering leaders.