21 November 2011
Bursaries to students with energy efficiency vision for SA
Merishka Singh, 2nd year student toward a Degree in Town and Regional Planning with the Durban University of Technology (DUT), is one of three recipients of bursaries from the Southern African Association for Energy Efficiency (SAEE), a chapter of the US-based Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). Brian Saunders and Sheree Anne Marinus, two 2nd year Bachelor of Architecture students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), received the remaining bursaries. All three candidates delivered excellent academic results in their first year of study which demonstrates good work ethic, dedication and determination. The SAEE bursary committee is overwhelmed by the enthusiasm shown toward the energy efficiency cause by these youngsters. The three awardees have been earmarked as persons with great vision for the future of South Africa.
With a thorough understanding of the challenges South Africa faces with regard to sustainable energy production, it is no wonder that Merishka from DUT has bagged no less than 7 distinctions and is aiming for the highest possible qualification she could achieve in the field of Town and Regional Planning. Merishka passionately comments on her field of study, “I love the course I am studying and cannot see myself following any other career path.”
At the official hand-over of the bursaries yesterday which formed part of the SAEE’s Annual Banquet and Awards ceremony, the official opening ceremony of the 6th Southern African Energy Efficiency Convention (SAEEC2011) and Exhibition, Prof LJ Grobler, President of the SAEE said, “Merishka is very perceptive in her views and shows potential as someone who can really see the bigger picture in the energy industry, not just by remedying the current problems, but by looking at ways in which tools, methods and controls should be implemented to ensure the development of the South African economy.”
The SAEE annually awards three bursaries to deserving students in the built environment, environmental and engineering fields of studies to encourage them to continue making contributions to an energy efficient economy for the country. This year a staggering 51 applications were received from educational institutions across the country. Students may also apply to become members of the SAEE at no charge.
