By Kgothatso Monono
The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) has granted full accreditation for the Tshwane University of Technology’s Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Computer Systems Engineering under the leadership of the Acting Head of the Department, Prof Chunling Du. This follows a rigorous accreditation visit conducted at the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT) on 24 and 25 April 2025.
Over the two-day evaluation, the ECSA panel conducted comprehensive assessments, including detailed programme reviews, laboratory inspections, interviews with staff and students as well as meticulous documentation audits. The outcome affirms the academic quality, relevance and integrity of both programmes, with the accreditation valid until the next regular cycle in five years’ time.
Prof Chunling Du, Acting Head of the Department of Computer Systems Engineering
Although a few minor concerns were noted, they were not deemed significant and will be addressed in the final report. Overall, the ECSA panel’s findings strongly endorsed the programmes’ structure, delivery and commitment to continuous improvement.
This accomplishment is the result of a coordinated, University-wide effort. The Department of Computer Systems Engineering led the charge, with academic and support staff working diligently to align graduate attributes, refine assessment methods and compile extensive evidence to meet ECSA’s rigorous standards. Their efforts were supported through numerous workshops and planning meetings.
The CSE Department commended the ICT Faculty Dean’s Office, Faculty management and various supporting units on the Soshanguve campus, including service departments, the library, ICT Services, the SHE division and laboratory assistants, who ensured that the infrastructure and systems were fully prepared for the evaluation.
Special recognition was also given to the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and DQP, particularly Jones Moloisane, Johann Pretorius and Nhlanhla Dikiza, who’s technical and quality assurance support proved instrumental throughout the process.
The involvement of alumni, students and advisory board members further enhanced the accreditation visit. Their perspectives and testimonials gave the ECSA panel valuable insights into the programmes' industry relevance and practical impact.
Viewing the minor concerns as opportunities for further growth, the department has already initiated steps to strengthen the identified areas. This forms part of its ongoing strategy to maintain excellence and exceed South Africa's engineering education benchmarks.
Securing full accreditation from ECSA validates the University’s commitment to engineering education while it also celebrates the spirit of collaboration, resilience and academic excellence that defines TUT.