By Mosima Rafapa
The Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) recently hosted a programme alignment workshop to expand the impact of the Gibela Research Chair in Manufacturing and Skills Development. Located in the Department of Industrial Engineering, the Chair is now set to broaden its reach by integrating additional TUT entities into its collaborative framework.
The workshop, Localisation-Driven Rail Industry-Based Research, took place on Monday, 2 June 2025, at TUT’s Pretoria Campus. ” The event highlighted the capabilities of various FEBE technology stations in supporting the local rail manufacturing sector, with a strong focus on localisation.
Established in 2016, the Gibela Research Chair is dedicated to advancing railway-specific skills and promoting innovation within South Africa’s rail industry. The recent renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding for the Chair signals continued commitment to these goals.
Transdisciplinary collaboration in focus
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, stressed the importance of cross-disciplinary cooperation. She encouraged the involvement of TUT’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub and the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Development in rail-related research initiatives.
“Research Chairs are vehicles that propel us forward, not only as a university but as a nation,” said Dr Papu-Zamxaka. “There’s untapped potential. I urge the Gibela Transport Consortium to reflect on how we can draw from other entities to enrich the Chair’s work.”
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement
Vincent Tau, Manager of the Technology Station in Chemicals, outlined the alignment of his team’s expertise in electroplating and chemical research with the goals of the Gibela Research Chair. In addition, Junior Lechaba, Rolling Stock Operations Executive at Gibela, discussed the application of AI in predictive maintenance stressing the importance of developing local suppliers for high-demand chemical components used in train manufacturing.
Strategic Vision for the Future
Dr Tshifhiwa Nenzhelele, the Gibela Research Chair and Head of the Department of Industrial Engineering, presented a strategic plan aimed at integrating more internal stakeholders over the next five years. This initiative aims to extend the Chair’s influence beyond the Department of Industrial Engineering.
“The Chair’s primary objective is to assist Gibela in revitalising South Africa’s railway manufacturing sector,” said Dr Nenzhelele. “Through research and development, process optimisation, capacity building and support for SMMEs in the rail sector, we want to ensure tangible benefits for our students and the broader industry.”
The workshop also highlighted the Rail Manufacturing Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (RMCERI), a collaborative venture between Gibela Rail, TUT, and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA). RMCERI provides critical support in applied research, entrepreneurship, capacity building, and market access for emerging businesses in rail manufacturing.
A shared vision for growth
Prof Mxolisi Shongwe, Executive Dean of FEBE, reinforced the Faculty’s commitment to collaboration. “There is room for growth. We can achieve more if we work as a team,” said Prof Shongwe. “For example, incorporating the Technology Station in Electronics and exploring AI applications, as suggested by the DVC, are tangible next steps. The Faculty is ready for this evolving partnership and optimistic about its future.”
Prof Mxolisi Shongwe, Executive Dean of FEBE