Some of the team members from CUT PDTS and MECAD, from left: Mzwake Moqhaisa, Thato Moloi, Angelique Johnson, Kekeletso Koroloso, Hayley Abrahams, Tyrone Boshoff, Francois Kuys (back), Miralde Kotze and Shelly Mona.

The Product Development Technology Station (PDTS), MECAD and DELL brought together industry experts and the next generation of designers and engineers at the Industry Indaba 2025. The Industry Indaba provided the opportunity to form connections, explore collaborations, and discover new opportunities in manufacturing and engineering while shaping the future of the industry.

Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research Innovation and Engagement, Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa said that the indaba was more than just a networking platform. “It is a convergence of minds, a meeting of innovation and a reflection of our shared commitment to driving forward South Africa's technological and industrial growth. It is through such partnerships that we can begin to collectively respond to the national development priorities and global challenges. Through this partnership, our students, our interns and clients gain access to industry-grade SolidWorks software, training and technical support. This will help us to foster a digitally capable workforce ready for the market demands. At the core of the CUT-PDTS, lies a deep sense of purpose- which is impact. Whether we are developing sensory integration equipment for therapy, improving hospital communication systems with local solutions or helping township-based entrepreneurs prototype their best product, our goal is very clear- to create meaningful change through innovation,” said Prof. Setlalentoa.

Selloane Ramaebebe, Mechanical Engineering intern and first time Industry indaba attendee was excited and inspired to be part of the indaba.  “There are so many things that I didn’t know that I got to explore on the day such as opportunities for the licenses. As a student developer, we need such information when we go out into the world of work. I also wanted to tap into the entrepreneurial side of things. It is very encouraging how they also assist with licensing when it comes to the entrepreneurial side,” said Ramaebebe.

Peter Fick, from a private company in Bloemfontein also attended the event hoping to learn about what's new on SolidWorks and how he can enhance his skills. “It was worth a day out of the office because I learned more about the CAD tools, the new features and I could use them in the work I do. I’m looking forward to exploring all the new features of SolidWorks,” said Fick.

Ms Shelly Mona, Deputy Director: Product Development Technology Station (PDTS), said “as CUT-PDTS, we are proud to contribute to local economic development by localising production, reducing dependency on imports and enabling our communities to become creators, not just consumers of technology. We also remain committed to inclusive innovation, ensuring that our services reach even those traditionally excluded from the innovation ecosystem. Our support of youth development through internships, mentoring, practical experience is a testimony to our belief in people as the greatest source of innovation,” said Ms Mona.