Grey skies and a passing thunderstorm did little to deter prospective students and their families from attending the Faculty of Engineering’s 2026 Open Day on Saturday, 18 April, at Stellenbosch University (SU). Instead, the event saw a steady flow of visitors and an atmosphere that was energetic, curious and highly engaged.

This year’s Open Day marked a return to a fully operational General Engineering Building. The recent upgrades and additional space made a noticeable difference, improving the flow between venues and eliminating bottlenecks. With activities once again centred at the front of the Engineering complex, the event regained a sense of familiarity while offering a more seamless experience.

By mid-morning, the Bedouin Tent was a hive of activity. Here, current undergraduate students welcomed visitors and set the tone for the day with guiding tours, answering questions and sharing their own experiences of studying engineering at SU. For many prospective students, this was their first real glimpse into what that journey might look like.

Tours ran every 10 to 15 minutes, creating a steady rhythm across the Faculty. Groups moved through departments, pausing to engage with academic staff, watch demonstrations and ask questions.

The information sessions, led by the Dean and Vice-Deans, drew consistently full audiences. Alongside practical details about programmes and admissions, conversations often turned to the bigger picture, particularly the role of artificial intelligence and how it is reshaping the engineering landscape. 

“Our Open Day is about more than showcasing our facilities and programmes – it gives us the opportunity to connect with prospective engineering students and show them what studying engineering at Stellenbosch University can offer,” says Prof Wikus van Niekerk, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering.

Across the Faculty, departmental demonstrations once again formed the heart of the Open Day. From virtual reality applications and smarter production systems of factories in Industrial Engineering, to effective energy systems and automated design in Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, each department offered a glimpse into its unique focus areas. Civil Engineering explored themes such as urban mobility and water dynamics, while Chemical Engineering highlighted urban mining for a circular economy and a virtual plant tour for future chemical engineers. Electrical and Electronic Engineering showcased its specialised laboratories and systems, drawing steady interest throughout the day. 

The expanded Chalkboard area offered a welcome pause between activities, giving visitors a space to gather, regroup and stay dry as the weather shifted. Ultimately, the Open Day balanced rigorous academic insight with meaningful connection, bridging the gap between future students and current ones while turning curiosity into clarity. It is this personal touch that continues to make the Open Day a highlight of the Faculty calendar.

Missed Open Day? Don’t miss the deadline. Applications for 2027 close on 31 July 2026.