Even before they graduate, the students of the Department of Electrical Engineering feel like professionals already. This is because they have been exposed to something big, something that governs the profession, the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE), a professional association representing electrical and electronic engineers, technologists, and technicians in Southern Africa. SAIEE was founded in 1906 and has 6000 members. Sibongiseni Masondo, staff member at the department, said the organisation is “committed to promoting the advancement of electrical engineering science and its practical applications for the benefit of its members and the Southern African community”. SAIEE’s primary goal is to advance education and training in the Electrical Engineering field, with presentations and workshops delivered by experts in their respective areas of specialisation.
There are SAIEE boards present in every province in the country, comprising experts from industry, academia, and government. Their representatives are present in every higher education institution across South Africa, including student chapters and academic staff.
On 13 September 2024, the Electrical Engineering students met some of the experts that Masondo refers to and interacted with them. The MUT students also established their chapter, which has a fully-fledged leadership. Its chairperson is Sbahle Maphumulo, and the deputy is Mcebisi Sikhakhane. Fanele Gina is the secretary. Masondo said the initiative “aims to empower our MUT Electrical Engineering students as they are progressing toward their professional careers. One of the benefits for our students is the opportunity to attend SAIEE events and workshops where they get the opportunity to engage with industry professionals and experts in this field”.
MUT students gained significant benefits from the SAIEE by participating in industrial site visits on 9 and 10 September 2024 at eThekwini Municipality Electricity department. They learned about how electricity is distributed to all consumers within the municipality, and how the entire system is interconnected and managed through a network control station.