The Durban University of Technology (DUT), in collaboration with the Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA), made history as the Siyahamba Solar Boat became the only South African and African team to compete at the 2024 Monaco Energy Boat Challenge. Representing both DUT and South Africa with pride and distinction, Siyahamba showcased its capability to compete on a global stage in its very first attempt. Although the team did not secure a victory last week, Siyahamba’s positive performance in Europe, highlighted the team’s potential and competitive spirit. The experience and lessons learned from this year’s event are set to inspire further research and innovation, driving the pursuit of excellence at DUT.
Professor Ian Lazarus, team leader of DUT Siyahamba, expressed immense satisfaction in the team, saying: “I was extremely proud of our team and what we had achieved. They worked tirelessly every day, firstly to get the boat ready for the inspection tests in order to compete in the event and then, to have Siyahamba in racing condition each day. We competed against top-class universities with large teams that have been participating for years at this event in Monaco.”
Professor Lazarus emphasised that DUT Siyahamba stood out at the 2024 Monaco Energy Boat Challenge and was well-received by organisers and fellow competitors. “They all admitted that Siyahamba was the best-looking boat in the solar class and was different from the others. We were quietly confident that we would do well in the endurance and slalom races and many were surprised by our performance,” he added.
Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT, celebrated the significant achievement, saying, “DUT Siyahamba’s success at the 2024 Monaco Energy Boat Challenge exemplifies our commitment to innovation and sustainability, key aspects of our ENVISION2030 strategy. This achievement showcases our students’ and staff’s exceptional talent and creativity while highlighting our leadership in renewable energy solutions. We are grateful to our partners and sponsors for their support, which made our participation possible. This milestone brings international recognition and inspires further advancements and collaborations in sustainable practices.”
This year marked the 11th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco. More than 40 universities from around the world competed in Monte Carlo. In total, over 50 boats crewed by 450 students from 25 nations, contributed to the success of this year’s event. The 2024 Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, which garnered over 1 million views online, marked a significant milestone for DUT and the Siyahamba Solar Boat team. Their participation not only spotlighted the innovative capabilities of South African engineering but also set the stage for future advancements and participation in international competitions.
The DUT Siyahamba team would also like to thank their sponsors EWSETA, Fibre Tech, Reho Communications, Prestige Signage, ElectroMechanica, Pulse Electrical Suppliers and Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS) for making this event possible.
Pictured: The DUT Siyahamba crew member steers the solar boat at the 11th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge.
Picture Credit: https://yachtclubdemonaco.smugmug.com/Energy-Boat-Challenge/Edition-2024/PHOTOS
Alan Khan
