In a dynamic fusion of theory and practice, final-year students from the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering at the Central University of Technology (CUT) are not just tackling real-world challenges but leading the charge with their ground-breaking electronics projects. Enrolled in Project III and Design Project III under the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (FEBIT), these students are redefining the boundaries of engineering education through hands-on, problem-solving initiatives that address current societal needs. 

Under the expert guidance of Professor Pierre Hertzog and with Design Project III co-instructed by Dr Thabo Bihi, students in the Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electrical Engineering and Diploma in Engineering Technology: Electrical Engineering programmes are tasked with transforming theoretical knowledge into functional, innovative solutions. These capstone projects push students to design, adapt, and enhance electronic systems with cutting-edge technology. 

In Project III, students begin by designing an original electronic system to solve specific problems using essential components such as microprocessors, sensors, keypads, LCD screens, and connectivity modules like Bluetooth, GSM, or Wi-Fi. Among the recent standout projects is the "Smart Guard Garage Door System," created by Mr K. Legodi, a solution to enhance security for remote garage doors. This project features a fingerprint authentication system, an ultrasonic sensor for accurate distance measurement, and an alert system that notifies users via SMS in case of unauthorised access attempts. Mr Legodi's system also integrates IoT technology by sending sensor data to ThingSpeak, allowing for real-time monitoring—a prime example of modern electronics applied to everyday security. 

Building on the foundation of Project III, Design Project III challenges students to enhance an existing project with at least 50% original modifications, promoting adaptability and creative problem-solving. One of the notable projects by Ms H. Rantsane focuses on bolstering security through renewable energy. Her solar-powered alarm system, designed to detect movement and control spotlights through a solar tracking mechanism, addresses the need for sustainable security solutions in South Africa. This project combines eco-consciousness with advanced security, using light-dependent resistors (LDRs) to maximise energy efficiency and PIR sensors to monitor movement, providing a more innovative and greener solution for residential and commercial security. 

Empowering Future Engineers for Tomorrow's Challenges - both Project III and Design Project III exemplify CUT's commitment to producing technically proficient engineers equipped to meet real-world demands through innovative, self-driven design. These projects showcase the ingenuity of CUT's students and reflect the university's broader mission to foster future engineers who can innovate for a better tomorrow. 

With inspiring mentors like Prof. Hertzog and Dr Bihi, CUT's final-year engineering students are well on their way to becoming the next generation of engineering leaders—capable, adaptable, and ready to make a tangible impact in the world.