The Faculty of Engineering at Stellenbosch University (SU) recently welcomed 200 Grade 11 and 12 learners from across South Africa to its annual Engineering Winterweek – an immersive programme that offers high school learners a taste of university life and the engineering profession. Over the course of the week, learners explored cutting-edge facilities, attended lectures, stayed in university residences, and experienced the energy and spirit of campus life.
Participants were guided through the various departments within the Faculty, where they met some of SU’s most accomplished lecturers and took part in hands-on learning experiences designed to inform and inspire. Evening activities such as karaoke, a sokkie, movie night, and a creativity-testing project challenge added fun and camaraderie after action-packed days.
One of the most defining aspects of Winterweek is that it is entirely student-led. This year’s programme was directed by final-year civil engineering student Miguel Martins, supported by a passionate committee of senior students – many of whom were once Winterweek attendees themselves. Miguel described it as a privilege to lead the initiative and shared the following message:
“To my amazing committee, thank you for your dedication, creativity, and energy in pulling off such a special week. I’m proud of the way we came together to make it meaningful for every learner who joined us. A heartfelt thank you as well to the many companies and university departments who opened their doors and hosted us throughout the week – your time and effort made a huge impact.
And to the 200 learners who joined us from across the country, thank you for bringing your curiosity and enthusiasm. I hope you left with new knowledge, friendships, and a stronger passion for engineering.”
A standout feature of the programme is the exposure learners gain to the real-world practice of engineering. They visited a range of leading engineering companies, where they met professional engineers, toured facilities, and learned about the diverse disciplines within the field. Among the host organisations were Eskom, Simera, Rhomburg, One-Eighty, John Thompson, PRDW, Green Create, Reutech, and Paterson & Cooke. These industry visits were generously facilitated and offered learners invaluable insights into potential future career paths. For many, it was their first time stepping into an engineering workplace and seeing theory brought to life.
The Faculty’s dedicated student recruiter, August Engelbrecht, described the week as “vibrant, with discovery, hands-on learning, and unforgettable campus experiences.”
“Despite a packed schedule and long, tiring days, learners showed up with energy and curiosity, eager to learn and make the most of every opportunity. We look forward to welcoming many of these bright young minds back to Stellenbosch in a year or two,” he said.
Photograph: Highlights from Winterweek at the Faculty of Engineering, where future engineers got a glimpse of campus life and innovation in action.
[Article by Amber Viviers]
