The University of Johannesburg continues to strengthen its reputation for impactful, future-focused research, as Dr Bonginkosi Thango has been honoured with the Emerging Engineering Practitioner Award at the 2026 ECSA Engineering Industry Awards.
Presented on 26 March 2026 at Galleria, Sandton, as part of the ECSA × SAICE Engineering Symposium, the award recognises rising professionals whose work is shaping the engineering profession through innovation, leadership, and real-world impact.
A Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Dr Thango is part of a new generation of engineers redefining the role of the discipline in society. His work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, intelligent sensing systems, and applied digital engineering—fields increasingly critical to addressing complex global and local challenges.
Since completing his doctorate in 2021, Dr Thango has built a strong and growing research profile, with particular emphasis on low-cost water quality monitoring technologies. His work reflects a broader shift in engineering towards solutions that are not only technically advanced, but also accessible, scalable, and socially responsive.
The Emerging Engineering Practitioner Award category featured eight nominees, underscoring both the competitiveness of the field and the significance of this recognition. The event brought together leaders from across the engineering sector, including academics, industry professionals, and institutional representatives, to celebrate excellence and innovation.
For the University of Johannesburg, the award reinforces the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment’s contribution to national engineering leadership and highlights the increasing visibility of its academics in high-impact professional spaces.
Prof Thokozani Shongwe, Vice Dean: Research, noted: “Dr Thango’s recognition is a proud moment for the Faculty and for the University of Johannesburg. It affirms the importance of engineering scholarship that is both academically rigorous and socially relevant.”
The impact of this recognition extends beyond institutional achievement. For students and emerging researchers, Dr Thango’s trajectory offers a compelling example of how engineering can be used to solve real societal challenges.
Ms Hazel Ramotlou, a student nominee, reflected: “Seeing one of our lecturers receive this award is highly motivating as a student. It shows us that engineering can be used to solve real community problems and that research can have practical impact.”
More broadly, the award signals the growing influence of young engineers who are shaping the future of the profession through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to societal needs. In areas such as water quality, digital innovation, and sustainable development, this new generation is redefining what it means to be an engineer in the 21st century.
Dr Thango’s recognition stands as a clear example of how the University of Johannesburg is advancing knowledge that not only pushes disciplinary boundaries, but also delivers tangible impact where it matters most.
