Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (DEECE)

Mr Ben g roenewald groenewaldb@cput.ac.za

The strategic objective of the DEECE is to integrate cutting edge technology research with our academic programmes. In order to do this, it is essential that we align our academic programmes and research with the needs of the country and its relevant industries as contained in the strategic plan of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). From this flow CPUT’s RTI Blueprint and the strategic alignment of faculty and ultimately departmental objectives.

This process of integrating academia and cutting edge technology research has not only contributed to students becoming highly skilled graduates, but is also instrumental in building human resource capacity within our research niche areas. Our satellite facility has launched its own CubeSat, our substation automation is setting standards in the power distribution environment, and our energy and instrumentation research facilities aim to answer the country’s call for energy security.

Evidence of these skills is clearly seen in the various achievements within the department, e.g. the design and commission of an innovative standalone automated solar oven, combined with a solar-powered generator which was entered into the Environment and Renewable Energy category of the International Automation competition hosted by Phoenix Contact, a German-based company. The artefact is able to operate off-grid and can be used to boil water, cook food and also generate electricity. Dr Fritz, Mr Kallis and five students from our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes were awarded top honours. As winners, they will be given the opportunity to showcase their project at the 2015 Hanover Industrial Fair, the biggest industrial fair in the world.

Going forward, the department aims to continue improving its academic and research outputs, establish closer connections with industry, and continue to provide skilled future employees and entrepreneurs to South African industries.