Engineering

In lean times, more food can be produced with fewer resources

Agriculture is at the forefront of ensuring food security and researchers at the North-West University (NWU) are constantly looking for innovative and more effective ways to enhance this crucial sector.

Associate professor Rojanette Coetzee from the School of Industrial Engineering is focusing on “lean agriculture” to reduce waste and improve the efficiency of agri-systems.

“The lean agriculture approach is adapted from the manufacturing industry, where it is used to reduce waste, improve efficiency and do more with less,” says Prof Coetzee.

Submitted on Wed, 10/09/2024 - 08:14

Empowering the next generation of STEM leaders in South Africa

Founded in 2004, Engenius Kids is a student-run programme at the North-West University (NWU), dedicated to inspiring Grade 9 learners, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds in townships, to pursue their education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“Our mission is to cultivate future innovators and leaders in South Africa by providing exposure, education and encouragement in STEM fields,” says Nadin Talip, programme manager for Marketing and Media at Engenius Kids.

Submitted on Tue, 10/08/2024 - 15:42

Alumnus honoured with top industrial engineering award for his work in agriculture

North-West University (NWU) alumnus Chris van Dyk recently received the Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering’s (SAIIE’s) Best Industrial Engineering Practitioner - Employer's Choice Award.

This award highlights his contributions to the field of agriculture and the respect he has earned from peers and employers as business analyst at Taaibosch Piggery.

Submitted on Thu, 09/12/2024 - 18:25

Engineering Postgraduate Open Day opens minds to endless possibilities

The Faculty of Engineering at the North-West University (NWU) held its Postgraduate Open Day on 25 July, granting prospective students the opportunity to engage with the faculty and peers.

The Open Day served as a platform for students to explore Engineering PhD programmes, the diverse research fields and advanced facilities of the NWU. Attendees also discovered more about interdisciplinary possibilities, application procedures and funding opportunities through presentations by leading experts in the faculty.

Submitted on Thu, 08/01/2024 - 14:56

Self-driving cars, super-fast communication and smart cities need advanced wireless networks to run

Artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed communication systems in today’s modern world. The integration of AI into various communication systems will likely lead to more advanced capabilities and the invention of new applications. Autonomous vehicles, exceptionally fast communications speeds and smart cities come to mind.

Submitted on Wed, 07/31/2024 - 12:20

News24 selects NWU innovator as a Young Mandela

The legacy and impact of former President Nelson Mandela in changing people’s lives for the better remain a milestone to aspire to.

News24 recently selected their Young Mandelas for 2024 ─ celebrating a new generation of young champions who are committed to building the South Africa of Madiba’s dreams.

Ian Thomson, a PhD student and lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering of the North-West University (NWU), is one of these 30 exceptional young people chosen for their remarkable achievements. He was named winner in the innovation category.

Submitted on Mon, 07/29/2024 - 12:55

Celebrating the first graduates of pioneering mechatronics degree

The North-West University (NWU) is proud to announce the graduation of the first cohort from its innovative mechatronics degree programme, recently introduced by the Faculty of Engineering. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone for the university.

Prof Kenny Uren from the School of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, highlights the unique nature of this programme.

Submitted on Fri, 07/26/2024 - 10:34

Engineering Week 2024 inspires the next generation of innovators

It all starts at the North-West University (NWU), and the Faculty of Engineering on the Potchefstroom Campus has risen to the occasion to fulfil that mission. For many years, the goal of the biennial Engineering Week has been to introduce high school learners from Grade 8 to 12 to engineering as a fascinating career.

This year the project ran from 2 to 5 July, welcoming learners from across South Africa and neighbouring countries as they started an interactive and engaging learning experience at the engineering facilities of the NWU.

Submitted on Fri, 07/12/2024 - 11:29