Dr. Sandile Koko, who has been serving as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (FEBIT), has bid farewell to the Central University of Technology (CUT) community. With a remarkable academic journey spanning 18 years, Dr. Koko has made significant contributions to the field of Electrical Engineering, both within the Faculty of FEBIT and previously in the Faculty of Humanities. His dedication to education, research, and mentorship has left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.

“I write this letter with sincere gratitude, heartfelt reflection, and a touch of sadness, to formally announce my departure from the university as I embark on a new academic journey. My time at CUT has been far more than a professional journey, it has been a life-changing experience. CUT has been my second home and a safe space for me for the past 18 years. I have since grown personally, academically, and professionally. From my humble beginnings as a student to ultimately achieving my Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, CUT has played an instrumental role in shaping who I am today.”

Coming from a historically disadvantaged community, Dr. Koko expressed that the opportunities he has received have been truly transformative, enabling him to reach significant professional and academic milestones.

“These milestones include attaining professional registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), becoming the first Black South African at CUT to be awarded a Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, and receiving an NRF C3 rating as an established engineering researcher. This NRF rating reflects the recognition of the quality and impact of my research. Such an achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support and guidance of the FEBIT leadership, my promoter Prof. Kanzumba Kusakana, and Ms. Edith Sempe and her team in the research office. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the wider CUT community for believing in me, supporting my potential, and encouraging my dreams and goals throughout the years,” said Dr. Koko.

He added that the university has truly unleashed his potential and empowered him to contribute to high-impact research across diverse areas of electrical engineering, as reflected by his Google Scholar H-index of 11 and over 650 citations. “These achievements are not only personal milestones but also a testament to the academic excellence cultivated at CUT. Over the past years, I have been honoured with several prestigious research awards at both national and international levels. These recognitions highlight the collaborative spirit at CUT, and I proudly share them with my colleagues and mentors who have supported me throughout this journey.”

In conclusion, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to his colleagues for their unwavering support, encouragement, and shared commitment to excellence. He also extended sincere thanks to his students, whose engagement has enriched his journey; to his collaborators, partners, and friends who have walked alongside him; and to the CUT Executive Leadership for fostering his professional growth and providing the environment to explore and innovate.

“I am thankful for the privilege of contributing to such a motivating and dynamic academic community. I will always cherish the memories and hold deep respect for this esteemed institution. The spirit of CUT and its community will forever remain a part of who I am.”

Dr. Koko’s departure marks the end of an era, and his presence will be deeply missed. The CUT community extends its heartfelt gratitude for his years of service and wishes him continued success in all his future endeavours. His final working day at CUT is on 27 June 2025.

Uploaded: 25 June 2025