Three DUT students are creating history by being the first three Engineering students from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at Btech level, to present a paper at conference level in Johannesburg from 14 to 16 July 2014.

Sumaiya Latiff, Nathanael Govender and Ayanda Hlongwane embarked on writing a research paper for the professional body conference SAIIE (South African Institute for Industrial Engineers). This is despite the fact that the criteria to publishing in conferences were only for Masters or Doctoral students. Even though they were told it was difficult to publish at Btech level they still persevered due to their passion to their field in Engineering.

Their research topic is titled: ‘The evaluation of the involvement of employees in quality projects at locally based companies’. They chose this topic because of the fields of quality and employee involvement which demand ever increasing attention owing to the dynamic state industries come to operate in, today.

“Writing this research paper and having it accepted, is a huge accomplishment and we are extremely proud in knowing that we were able to succeed and all our efforts have become fruitful. Furthermore, we strongly believe that it will most certainly pave the way and encourage other students to engage in such an activity and aim as high as we have despite meeting challenges along the way,” added Sumaiya excitedly.

Nathanael Govender said it was an exciting time for them as researchers.
“We cannot underestimate the vital importance of research work to academic fields as well as to the university at large, in light of this, to have students keen on writing academic papers for conferences and journals at a B-tech level is most commendable and shows a level of maturity that is sweeping through the institution. More and more students should take keen interest in research at B-tech level in preparation for postgraduate study,” he said.

The students are very grateful to lecturer Mr Singh and DUT Department Head: Mr A K Naicker. Both had been instrumental in guiding and assisting them in gaining and sustaining momentum throughout the process.
“Well done to the students who worked on the paper. They have done the department proud with their achievement in publishing at the conference. The calibre of work produced was extremely high and our congratulations on the acceptance of the paper,” said Mr Naicker.

Ayanda Hlongwane added that having endeavoured through the rigorous process of B-Tech where time management skills are severely put to task, they were able to remain adamant in their pursuit of achieving the goal they set forth.
“It is through this perseverance that we are able to acknowledge our achievement and would feel honoured to be the recipients of the admiration of our peers and other students that are to follow our example,” he said.

The students have reiterated that studying at DUT had given each of them the platform to diversify and gain numerous skills which had enhanced their abilities and capabilities.

“DUT has provided me as a student with several exciting academic and career opportunities. Authoring a paper for presentation at a professional conference at a B-tech degree level is an uncommon occurrence but through the level of support available for students at the DUT, we are certain that such achievements will become more common place,” said Nathanael.