FEBE inspires future innovators through STEM challenge

More than 500 aspiring engineers, innovators and future problem-solvers stepped beyond the classroom and into the world of practical innovation when the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) recently hosted its Annual Schools Competition Day at the Pretoria Campus.

Grade 10 to 12 learners put their problem-solving, innovation and engineering skills to the test through a variety of practical STEM challenges hosted by FEBE. Bringing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education to life, the event attracted Grade 10 to 12 learners from 15 schools across Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the North-West. Learners participated in a range of hands-on challenges designed to test their creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and engineering skills while exposing them to real-world applications of STEM disciplines.

Addressing the participants, FEBE Executive Dean Prof Mxolisi Shongwe encouraged learners to embrace challenges and view setbacks as valuable learning opportunities. “If a circuit does not connect or a structure wobbles, don’t panic. Figure out why, adapt and try again. That is what real engineers and technologists do every single day,” he said.

Prof Shongwe highlighted that engineering is fundamentally about solving problems and making a positive impact on society. “This day is about creating, thinking critically and discovering how engineering and technology shape the world around us,” he added.

Learners participated in more than eight competitions developed by various FEBE departments. Some challenges began weeks before the event, with schools receiving materials and kits to design, build and refine their projects in advance. Other competitions required participants to develop solutions on campus under strict time constraints, simulating real-world engineering environments.

The Department of Electrical Engineering challenged learners to design and build two-way intercom systems, applying electronic principles to solve everyday communication challenges. In Building Sciences, participants explored digital construction cost estimation by measuring quantities and calculating project costs from residential floor plans, gaining insight into the professions of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management.

Meanwhile, the Department of Metallurgical Engineering tasked learners with designing devices capable of separating natural materials according to physical properties such as size, density and magnetism, demonstrating the practical value of materials engineering.

Beyond technical expertise, the competition also emphasised the importance of collaboration and teamwork. “The best engineering solutions in the world are never built by one person alone; they are built by teams that communicate and leverage each other’s strengths,” said Prof Shongwe. He encouraged learners to engage with academics and students throughout the day and use the opportunity to explore possible career pathways in engineering and the built environment.

Among the participants was Grade 12 learner Kgetho Ramahudu from S.J. Van Der Merwe Technical Secondary School in Lebowakgomo, Limpopo. Ramahudu participated in the Department of Industrial Engineering’s hydroponics challenge, which required learners to design and construct a simple food-growing system that uses limited space and water while eliminating the need for soil.

FEBE Executive Dean Prof Mxolisi Shongwe encouraged learners to embrace challenges, adapt to setbacks and persevere in finding solutions. The challenge demonstrated how engineering can contribute to addressing global issues such as food insecurity, water scarcity and diminishing arable land. “I learned a lot by participating in this competition. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, solve problems under pressure and believe in myself. Despite the challenges and disappointments along the way, I gained valuable experience and learned that perseverance matters more than giving up,” said Ramahudu.

FEBE Assistant Dean for Teaching and Learning Prof Caroline Khoathane encouraged learners to remain dedicated to their studies, particularly mathematics, which she described as a critical foundation for success in STEM-related fields. She likened mathematics to a muscle that must be exercised daily and urged learners to practise consistently as they prepare for higher education and future careers.

The Annual Schools Competition Day continues to serve as a platform for inspiring the next generation of engineers, scientists and innovators by exposing learners to practical problem-solving experiences and demonstrating the transformative role of STEM in shaping society and driving sustainable development.

FEBE Assistant Dean for Teaching and Learning Prof Caroline Khoathane urged learners to strengthen their mathematics skills as a foundation for STEM success.

Grade 12 learner Kgetho Ramahudu (left) from S.J. Van Der Merwe Technical Secondary School in Limpopo participated in the Industrial Engineering hydroponics challenge. She is pictured with teacher Tshililo Nemalegeni and fellow learner Mourice Mudau.