On Wednesday, 25 September 2024, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) celebrated the professorial inauguration of Professor Johan Meyer, Professor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Science, at the Ubuntu Chambers, Madibeng Building, Kingsway Campus.

Professor Meyer’s inaugural address, titled “Projects as Socio-Technical Systems in Engineering Education: A Six Bricks Journey,” offered a unique perspective on integrating socio-technical systems within engineering projects. He explored how these systems shape education and real-world applications, aligning with UJ’s innovative teaching and research practices designed to prepare students for the complex challenges of modern engineering.

Following the address, Professor Andre Nel, a Professor in Mechanical Engineering Science at UJ, provided an insightful response, enriching the discussion with reflections on the evolving landscape of engineering education.

The academic procession also featured esteemed guests such as Professor Sarah Gravett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research & Innovation(Acting) and VC Functionary, and Professor Daniel Mashao, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, adding to the gravitas of the occasion.

A Six Bricks Journey in Engineering Education

In his address, Professor Meyer introduced the Six Bricks concept, inspired by the Care for Education Foundation’s framework using Lego Duplo bricks. He used this metaphor to illustrate the pillars of engineering education:

• Education – From primary to post-graduate engineering qualifications.
• Experience – Gained from engaging with socio-technical systems.
• Mentorship – Guidance from those ahead, beside, and behind.
• Scholarship – A commitment to lifelong learning.
• Practice – The practical application of engineering principles.
• Support – The collaborative nature of meaningful engineering work.

He highlighted how engineering projects intertwine technical expertise with social considerations, transforming experiences into knowledge. Drawing on his leadership roles, such as working on the Hawk lead-in fighter for the South African Air Force, Professor Meyer emphasised the importance of applying engineering in impactful, complex environments.

Engineering projects with real-world impact

Professor Meyer credited mentorship from influential figures like Professors Jan-Harm Pretorius, Antoine Mulaba, J D van Wyk, Morgan Dundu and Andre Nel amongst others for shaping his academic and professional journey. He also discussed his creation of UJ’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) research group, which led to pioneering innovations like solar- and hydrogen-powered UAVs. His students have showcased their talents in high-profile competitions such as the Sasol Solar Challenge.

Professor Meyer’s commitment to real-world problem-solving is evident in community projects such as the Gwakwani Village project, which provides students and staff with opportunities to develop socio-technical solutions with societal impact. The project transformed the village by installing solar-powered borehole pumps, streetlights, and household lighting. These interventions improved access to basic needs like potable water and electricity, while also creating employment through a solar-powered bakery.

Another noteworthy project is the UJuggy CP Mobility Chair initiative, which addressed the needs of Cerebral Palsy patients in rural areas. Engineering students designed low-cost, foldable mobility chairs, earning recognition at the Gauteng Premier’s Disability Awards. Additionally, the team worked on projects at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital and collaborated with occupational therapists to develop assistive devices for those in need.

In environmental conservation, UJ students contributed to National Kruger Park projects by developing low-cost sensors for environmental monitoring and animal tracking, showcasing their ability to tackle both societal and ecological challenges.

A distinguished academic career

Professor Johan Meyer has been with UJ (formerly RAU) since 2004, serving in various leadership roles, including Departmental Head and Head of School for Electrical Engineering. A registered engineer with ECSA and a senior member of SAIEE and IEEE, Professor Meyer is also a Fellow of the South African Academy of Engineers. His research interests span optical systems, systems engineering, and engineering education. He has supervised over 80 postgraduate students, published more than 80 peer-reviewed papers, and received numerous awards, including the Gauteng Premier’s Disability Award.

This inauguration marks yet another milestone in Prof Meyer’s distinguished career, showcasing both his personal academic achievements and his dedication to solving real-world problems through innovative engineering.