High School Learners Explore Engineering at UKZN Winter School

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A group of bright-eyed Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners from across KwaZulu-Natal recently spent an exciting week immersed in the world of engineering during the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) annual Engineering Winter School.

Designed to give aspiring engineers a real-world introduction to the diverse engineering fields, the programme offered a full schedule of practical experiences, interactive experiments, and hands-on learning. Over the course of the week, students explored each of UKZN’s Engineering Disciplines: Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Mechatronics, Agricultural, and Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering. The immersive structure allowed learners to spend dedicated time in each Discipline while engaging with academics and current university students.

One of the highlights of the Civil Engineering module was the Aqualibrium Water Balancing Experiment, facilitated by the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) UKZN Student Chapter.

This educational activity simulated real-world water distribution challenges, encouraging learners to collaborate, apply engineering principles, and solve problems in real time. Mr Aryan Haricharan, Mr Tyrese Govender, and Mr Shaant Jaglal from the SAICE UKZN Student Chapter guided participants through the session. The chapter is known for organising impactful events for Civil Engineering students, including blood drives, fun days, and educational seminars.

During the Mechatronics Engineering sessions, students explored coding, programming, and the hands-on construction of hoverboards - a thrilling experience that combined innovation, creativity, and critical thinking. Guided by postgraduate students and lecturers, learners were introduced to the exciting world of robotics and automation. The session, held on Thursday, was organised by Ms Erin Zietsman and her team. As the student representative for the Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Robotics and Automation Society South Africa, Zietsman aligned the event with a broader initiative to promote robotics and inspire the next generation of engineers.

The aim was to expose students to real-world challenges in the field and ignite their creativity in crafting innovative solutions.

The event was hosted by the Scientific Multidisciplinary Advanced Research Technologies (SMART) Lab research group - Ms Whitney Mtolo, Mr Siyabonga Masiza, Mr Nkosingiphile Karl Langa, Mr Asande Mkhonza, Mr Asanda Ngubane, and Zietsman - in collaboration with Winter School mentors and several undergraduate volunteers. As a welcome gift, each participant received a custom-designed, temperature-sensitive, colour-changing 3D-printed keychain created by the SMART Lab team.

The day’s focus was building and flying drones, generously sponsored by RS. Before the hands-on session, students attended presentations on advanced mechatronics concepts and viewed project showcases that demonstrated real-world applications. These talks provided context for the role of mechatronic engineering in the broader field. A quiz with prizes encouraged engagement and friendly competition. Students then worked in teams to assemble and fly drone kits - a highlight of the day met with great enthusiasm. It was an inspiring experience that reflected the learners’ passion and curiosity.

Meanwhile, the Mechanical Engineering module featured an engaging afternoon session in collaboration with the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI). Learners were introduced to rocket design and aerospace engineering, gaining hands-on experience in propulsion, aerodynamics, and space technology. The session ignited imaginations and highlighted the many opportunities within Engineering.

The Chemical Engineering Department welcomed students with engaging lab-based experiments and demonstrations on chemical reactions, process engineering, and sustainability in industrial applications. These activities helped bridge the gap between theory and practice while emphasising the environmental and societal impact of the discipline.

In Agricultural Engineering sessions, learners explored how technology is revolutionising agriculture. From irrigation systems to mechanised farming solutions, they gained insight into how engineering supports food security and environmental sustainability.

The Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering sessions introduced students to the fast-paced world of electronics and digital systems. Learners experimented with basic circuits, programmed microcontrollers, and explored the logic systems that power modern devices.

Throughout the Winter School, the students were mentored by passionate facilitators who encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation all essential traits of successful engineers.

UKZN’s Engineering staff and student ambassadors also provided guidance on subject choices, career paths, and university life.

For many participants, the Winter School confirmed their passion for Engineering and helped them identify which discipline they may pursue. “This was an eye-opening experience,” said one Grade 12 learner. “Before this week, I was only vaguely aware of what engineers do, but now I know I want to study Mechatronics and work in robotics. I loved every second of it.”

As UKZN continues to support Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and provide opportunities for learners to explore Engineering first-hand, programmes like the Engineering Winter School are shaping the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers and changemakers.

Words: Swasti Maney

Photograph: Supplied