Mechanical Engineering students at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) can now join their professional institution before graduating, because of the recent launch of the UJ Kingsway Student Chapter of the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE).

Prof Esther Akinlabi, Head of Department, Mechanical Engineering Science will oversee the chapter, with assistance from staff mentors Dr Anton Maneschijn, Dr Sunita Kruger and Dr Barend Botha.

The 7 March 2016 launch event was a huge success with more than a hundred Mechanical Engineering Science students attending.

The President of SAIMechE, Mr Kudzai Nyangoni, described how participation in the Student Chapter can benefit the students in preparing them for their careers. Student membership is free of charge for Mechanical Engineering students.

Prof André Nel, Head of the School of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, emphasised that being a member of SAIMechE ensures staying in touch with new developments in all aspects of mechanical engineering. In addition, the networking activities allow members to share their experiences and knowledge with each other.

Mr Deon Kruger (Civil Engineering) gave practical examples of the successes of their equivalent civil engineering chapter at UJ.

The UJ Kingsway Student SAIMechE Chapter Committee was elected the same evening.