The 2026 first-year Engineering cohort at Stellenbosch University includes students from across South Africa who achieved 90% and above for Mathematics in their final school examinations in 2025. Representing a diverse range of schools from across the country, these students reflect both the national reach and the academic strength of the Faculty of Engineering at Stellenbosch University.

Several students were invited to share what inspired them to pursue engineering, how their strong foundation in Mathematics supports their studies, and what excites them most about studying at Stellenbosch University. Their reflections reveal a shared commitment to excellence, problem-solving and making a meaningful impact through engineering.

Asavela Booi

Home language: Xhosa | Province: Eastern Cape | Field: Mechatronic Engineering

Driven by a desire to solve real-world problems and uplift her community, Asavela chose Mechatronic Engineering because of her interest in both Mechanical and Electrical disciplines, especially robotics and biomedical applications. Her strong Mathematics background gives her confidence in approaching complex technical concepts. She looks forward to learning from expert lecturers and engaging in hands-on innovation within a supportive academic community.

Danel Muller

Home language: English | Province: Eastern Cape | Field: Civil Engineering

With a strong aptitude and interest in Mathematics, Danel knew she wanted to pursue a field grounded in analytical thinking. She chose Civil Engineering because of its tangible impact — the opportunity to see the physical results of her work and contribute to infrastructure that serves communities. She believes her strong mathematical foundation provides a solid base for building new knowledge and keeping pace with university study. She is particularly excited about the career and personal development opportunities offered within the Faculty of Engineering.

Katrien Booysen

Home language: Afrikaans | Province: Western Cape | Field: Mechatronic Engineering

Katrien is motivated by a desire to address human needs in efficient and meaningful ways. Although she enjoys abstract mathematical and physical theory, she chose Mechatronic Engineering to apply those concepts practically. Her strong mathematical grounding prepares her for advanced engineering studies, and she is particularly drawn to Stellenbosch for the leadership opportunities, inspiration and broader perspective it offers beyond the degree.

Khayelihle Mhlongo

Home language: Zulu | Province: Gauteng | Field: Mechanical Engineering

Fascinated by how machines and systems function, Khayelihle chose Mechanical Engineering because it combines creativity with logical problem-solving. He views Mathematics as the language of engineering, enabling him to approach complex challenges with confidence. He looks forward to working on real-world projects and collaborating with motivated peers, adding that the vibe on campus is “just electric.”

Luhluthando Cwele

Home language: Zulu | Province: KwaZulu-Natal | Field: Mechatronic Engineering

Motivated by understanding how systems work and how they can be improved to benefit communities, Luhluthando chose Mechatronic Engineering for its integrated and practical impact. His strong Mathematics background enhances his ability to analyse systems and grasp complex concepts efficiently. He looks forward to applying theory to real-world challenges within a supportive Faculty environment.

Pleasure Nkuna

Home language: Pedi | Province: Mpumalanga | Field: Mechanical Engineering

Travelling from Mpumalanga to begin his studies at Stellenbosch, Pleasure brings with him a strong passion for solving problems through Mathematics. The satisfaction he finds in working through complex equations inspired him to pursue Mechanical Engineering, where innovation meets practical impact. He is eager to gain hands-on experience while learning from skilled lecturers.

Siphe Ngolombane

Home language: Xhosa | Province: Western Cape | Field: Electrical Engineering

Siphe’s interest in electricity and energy systems led him to Electrical Engineering. He regards Mathematics as the foundation of engineering and finds motivation in the challenge of the programme, noting that when people say engineering is difficult, “they get me pumped — they get my blood boiling.” He is energised by the academic rigour of Stellenbosch Engineering.

Skyler Wong Fatt

Home language: English | Province: Northern Cape | Field: Mechanical Engineering

Skyler chose Mechanical Engineering because of her interest in applying Mathematics and Physics to real-world problems, with ambitions to specialise further in nuclear or biomedical engineering. Her advanced studies have strengthened her analytical thinking and problem-solving confidence. She is excited to be part of a motivated academic community.

Suhani Ahuja

Home language: Hindi | Province: Gauteng | Field: Industrial Engineering

Efficiency and strategic thinking attracted Suhani to Industrial Engineering, a field she sees as widely applicable across industries. Mathematics sharpens her logical reasoning and helps her break down complex challenges — an advantage in first-year modules rich in quantitative content. She is eager to be challenged academically while growing alongside driven peers.

Taboga Mathiba

Home language: Southern Sotho | Province: Limpopo | Field: Mechanical Engineering

Taboga’s fascination with mechanical systems inspired him to pursue Mechanical Engineering as a way to apply his analytical and critical thinking skills toward sustainable development. He believes his strong Mathematics background will equip him to handle the rigorous calculations required in engineering. He is particularly excited by the academic challenge and collaborative learning environment at Stellenbosch.

Zaghrah Buys

Home language: English | Province: Western Cape | Field: Chemical Engineering

A passion for Mathematics and Chemistry led Zaghrah to Chemical Engineering, where analytical thinking meets real-world application. She enjoys solving complex problems and was drawn to the discipline’s ability to translate theory into processes that improve everyday life. She looks forward to growing within Stellenbosch’s collaborative and well-equipped engineering environment.