The event hosted by the School of Engineering under the theme Research | Collaboration | Partnership, brought together key stakeholders from the Automotive Industry Development Centre – Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC), the automotive and manufacturing sectors, University staff, postgraduate candidates, and undergraduate students.
The day served as a platform to showcase research, exchange ideas, and strengthen partnerships that advance industry, sustainability, and community development.
A vision for the future of the automotive industry
The event opened with a welcome address by Professor Dalenca Pottas (left), Acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Technology.
Dr Kumeshan Reddy, Director of the Power Engineering Research Unit, chaired the first session, which featured a keynote by Thabo Shenxane, CEO of the Automotive Industry Development Centre – Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC).
In his address, Mr Shenxane presented a “10-Year Outlook into Automotive Engineering and Related Manufacturing”, offering insights into how innovation and strategic partnerships are shaping the province’s automotive future.
Research presentations by staff and postgraduate students explored cutting-edge topics, including Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, autonomous robotics, renewable energy, cyber-physical mobility systems, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. Contributors included Dr John Fernandes, Kabelo Mpurwana, Kyla Burden, Enock Chekure, Prof Karl van der Merwe, Thabelo Mohlala, and Emmanuel Lindsay, all showcasing work aligned with South Africa’s commitment to sustainable industrial innovation.
Undergraduate innovation on display
The second session, chaired by Martin Sanne, AIDC-EC Chair for Automotive Engineering, showcased AIDC-EC-supported undergraduate projects from the Departments of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering. These projects reflected the creativity and technical expertise of the University’s future engineers, including:
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Mobile Robot with Swarm Communication – Asemahle Rasana
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Dual-Axis Dynamic Gyroscopic Stabilization System – Zimasa Jam-Jam
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Telemetry Simulator for Electric Formula Student Vehicle – Emma Lucas
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Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for Additive Manufacturing – Jenna du Plessis
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PLC-Based Automatic Control System for Warehouse Applications – Luyolo Runeli
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Automotive-Based Electrical Engineering Projects – Iewan Kleu
The showcased work demonstrated how experiential learning and applied research are equipping students to address real-world engineering challenges.
Industry partners on tour; Participating students
Exploring advanced research facilities
Session three, chaired by Andrew Young, provided guided tours and live demonstrations in advanced engineering laboratories. Visitors explored the Future Mobility Laboratory, Additive Manufacturing Technology Centre (AMTC), merSETA facilities, Cyber-Physical Mobility Lab, Renewable Energy & Drone Lab, Siemens Lab, eNtsa Laser Cell, uYilo eMobility Programme, Power Engineering Research Unit (PERU), SWEAT Lab, and Marine Robotics Unit.
These facilities highlight the University’s commitment to hands-on learning, applied research, and partnerships.
Industry engagement and collaboration
The final session, chaired by Riccardo Temmers, Executive Manager for Future Skills and Sustainable Energy at AIDC-EC, focused on deepening collaboration between academia and industry. Prof Theo van Niekerk, Acting Director of the School of Engineering, closed the event by thanking participants and reaffirming the University’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of engineers who will shape the future of sustainable innovation.
Engineering Project Day 2025 exemplifies Nelson Mandela University’s mission to integrate teaching, research, and industry engagement. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the University continues to drive regional economic development, strengthen industry partnerships, and promote social progress through engineering excellence.