EnSci lecturer brings engineering solutions to real-world problems

“Engineering or technology is all about using the power of science to make life better for people, to reduce cost, to improve comfort, to improve productivity, etc.” These words by NR Narayana Murthy align with Sandile Dladla’s vision for his research and teaching in engineering. He believes that engineering should serve the people, the economy, and contribute to a better quality of life. This passion drives his work at the University of the Free State (UFS), where he is committed to creating impactful solutions, particularly in water management, and mentoring students to become future engineering leaders.

Dladla is also involved in research and collaborations through projects such as the Higher Education Partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa (HEP SSA) project, funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Through his involvement in the HEP SSA project, Dladla contributes to efforts that aim to equip engineers in sub-Saharan Africa with the skills needed to address local and global challenges.

The HEP SSA project falls under the broader Africa Catalyst Phase 5 initiative, which aims to strengthen professional engineering bodies in sub-Saharan Africa. Dladla believes that these organisations are key to promoting engineering professionalism and building local capacity to address sustainable development challenges.

Excited about growth and knowledge exchange, Dladla is looking forward to his upcoming UK visit.

Dladla has been selected to visit the University of Lincoln’s Institute of Agri-Food Technology in the United Kingdom, where he will observe the latest advancements in engineering education. “I look forward to learning from industry-based approaches to curriculum review and building capacity through exposure to innovative teaching methods,” he says. This visit is also to strengthen the professional network between academia and industry.