The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is celebrating another outstanding academic achievement following the recognition of Dr Eric Bakama from the Faculty of Management Sciences as a finalist for the 2026 Prof Paul Kruger Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning.
Presented by the Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering (SAIIE), the Prof Paul Kruger Award is one of South Africa’s most respected honours in engineering education. The award recognises academics who demonstrate exceptional commitment to teaching excellence, student development and innovation in higher education.
Dr Bakama is among a select group of finalists representing universities across South Africa, reflecting the high standard of teaching and learning that continues to distinguish DUT’s academic community. His recognition underscores the University’s commitment to academic excellence and its ongoing efforts to provide students with a transformative learning experience.
Teaching excellence remains central to DUT’s mission of producing graduates who are innovative, adaptable and equipped to respond to the challenges of an evolving world. Through its commitment to quality education, the University continues to create learning environments that encourage critical thinking, practical application and lifelong learning.
The Prof Paul Kruger Award celebrates educators who inspire students through innovative teaching approaches, promote academic success and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of engineering education. The recognition also acknowledges academics who continuously seek to enhance the student learning experience while preparing graduates for professional practice and leadership within their respective fields.
Dr Bakama’s achievement highlights the important role that dedicated educators play in shaping future engineers and contributing to South Africa’s socio economic development. As higher education continues to evolve in response to technological advancement and industry needs, excellence in teaching remains fundamental to producing graduates capable of addressing complex national and global challenges.
The Faculty of Management Sciences continues to make significant contributions to engineering education through high quality teaching, impactful research and strong industry engagement. The faculty remains committed to developing graduates who possess the technical knowledge, practical skills and innovative mindset required to make meaningful contributions within their professions.
Dr Bakama’s recognition also reflects the broader culture of excellence that continues to flourish across the University. DUT remains dedicated to recognising and supporting academics whose commitment to teaching enriches the student experience and strengthens the institution’s reputation for academic quality.
The winners of the 2026 Prof Paul Kruger Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning will be announced during the SAIIE Awards and Gala Dinner on Thursday, 13 August 2026 at the Wallenberg Conference Centre, STIAS, in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
The University congratulates Dr Eric Bakama on this well deserved recognition and wishes him every success at the upcoming national awards ceremony.
Pictured: Dr Eric Bakama.
Tiyani Mboweni
