The South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Centre is celebrating national recognition for its achievements after the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Student Chapter was named National Student Chapter of the Year for 2025 at the SAIEE Annual Awards. The Chapter was the inaugural recipient of the award, which recognises the work and impact of SAIEE student chapters.
At the ceremony, held at the Wanderers Club in Johannesburg, several prestigious awards were presented to members of the Institute. These included the SAIEE President’s Awards for major contributions to South African electrical, electronic, telecommunications, and computer engineering; the Engineering Excellence Award; the SAIEE Women in Engineering Award; and the SAIEE Young Achievers Award, which recognises achievement, creativity, and leadership. Alumnus and SAIEE KZN Centre Head of Marketing Ms Omaira Jajbhay, was nominated for the latter award.
Dr Mohamed Fayaz Khan was nominated for the Engineer of the Year Award, recognising a SAIEE member who has ‘energetically and voluntarily worked towards promoting electrical science and its applications’ for SAIEE’s benefit and for the Southern African community.
Khan, who oversees the activities of the UKZN Student Branch, is a Fellow of SAIEE, Chairperson of the SAIEE KZN Centre, Director of Isisusa Engineering Services, and Co-Director of UKZN’s Centre for Power and Energy Systems. He is also a senior lecturer in the School of Engineering, having joined UKZN in 2022 with more than 16 years of experience as a technology engineering specialist in industry.
The UKZN Student Chapter was launched in 2024 and is led by its committee, comprising students from the Discipline of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (EECE), together with volunteers and members. Throughout the year, they create meaningful opportunities for EECE students, from second-year to postgraduate level, to engage with professional engineers through guest presentations, workshops, seminars, networking events, and site visits, thereby expanding their learning and growth beyond the curriculum. They also host several outreach events to engage and inspire the next generation of engineers, giving school learners insight into what studying engineering entails.
UKZN Student Chapter representatives said the recognition from SAIEE reflects the dedication, innovation, and leadership demonstrated by students throughout the year.
“The Chapter continues to set a national benchmark through impactful initiatives, strong industry engagement, and its commitment to developing the next generation of engineering leaders,” read a statement from the Chapter.
They acknowledged Khan for his guidance, mentorship, and leadership that have enabled the chapter’s success and ensured its continued growth and excellence.
These nominations and awards highlight the exceptional talent and leadership emerging from the KwaZulu-Natal engineering community. The UKZN Student Chapter congratulated the entire student committee, members, and supporters for contributing to this achievement, and emphasised that their passion and commitment are strengthening the Engineering profession and inspiring future innovators.
Words: Christine Cuénod
Photograph: Supplied