At EIT, students don’t just learn theory. They develop the practical skills, industry insight, and confidence needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving engineering landscape. At the heart of this experience are educators who design learning environments that connect knowledge with real-world application.
The 2025 Teaching Excellence Awards celebrate those educators. These awards recognize lecturers who consistently go beyond curriculum delivery to create meaningful, applied learning experiences that support students at every stage of their professional journey.
This year, Dr. Ana Evangelista (Civil Enginering) and Saeideh Sekhavat (Electrical Engineering) were honored in the Higher Education category, while Mr. Danie Stoop ( Industrial Automation) and Mr. Frikkie Marx ( Mechanical Engineering) were recognized in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) category. Collectively, these educators exemplify EIT’s commitment to industry-aligned, student-centered teaching.
Shaping Futures through Experience
For many EIT lecturers, teaching excellence begins with industry experience and the ability to translate that experience into meaningful learning moments.
Reflecting on his career, Mr. Frikkie Marx emphasized the value of bringing practical expertise into the classroom.
“I always try to include my practical experience into the online presentations, and I am fortunate that my range of experience in industry covers the different Advanced Diplomas that I teach. The recognition is a reward for my commitment to include some of the latest developments in industry into my presentations.”
This integration of current industry practices ensures students graduate with knowledge that is relevant, current, and immediately applicable in the workplace.
Creating Genuine and Engaged Learning Environments
Teaching at EIT extends beyond content delivery. It is about building trust, fostering engagement, and creating spaces where students feel supported and motivated to succeed.
Award recipient Mr. Danie Stoop shared his philosophy on cultivating meaningful connections with students.
“The word ‘genuine’ amazes me the most. It implies something real and true. When I interact with my students, I try to be real and honest. It’s remarkable how people open up when they see that you are human too, still learning, and that what truly sets us apart are our experiences.”
He emphasized that trust is central to effective teaching.
“When you promise something, it should be done, even if it comes at your own expense. Trust is built over time, but it can be lost very quickly.”
This commitment to authenticity helps create learning environments where students feel confident to engage, ask questions, and grow.
Empowering Students to Realize Their Potential
For Dr. Ana Evangelista, teaching excellence is reflected in moments where education creates tangible opportunities and long-term impact.
She recalled a defining experience that underscored the power of guidance and encouragement.
“A former education agent brought in a potential master’s student to learn more about EIT. During the conversation, I discovered the agent also had a background in civil engineering. After discussing the course structure and career opportunities in Australia, both women enrolled in the program and later graduated in Semester 2, 2023.”
Today, both graduates are contributing to Australia’s construction industry, a reminder of how education can empower individuals and open new pathways.
Extending Learning Beyond Physical Boundaries
As engineering education continues to evolve, innovation plays a critical role in ensuring learning remains accessible and impactful, regardless of location.
Dr. Evangelista highlighted the importance of adapting teaching methods for EIT’s global student community.
“In subjects like construction and engineering materials, it’s essential to demonstrate concepts such as compressive and tensile strength. With students living in different countries and circumstances, virtual and remote labs allow us to demonstrate equipment, conduct analyses, and connect theory with practical understanding.”
By combining virtual demonstrations with hands-on learning approaches, EIT ensures students receive consistent, high-quality education wherever they are.
Looking Ahead: Teaching for the Future of Engineering
Saeideh Sekhavat shared her perspective on the future of engineering education and the role educators play in shaping it.
“What excites me most is how AI, data analytics, and digital technologies are transforming both industry and learning. I’m excited to help shape a generation of engineers who are technically capable, adaptable, creative, and ethically aware.”
She also reflected on the philosophy that guides her teaching.
“Teaching is about learning together in a supportive environment where students feel respected, confident, and connected to real-world applications. When students feel safe to explore ideas and see meaning in what they are learning, they don’t just study the subject. They begin to own it.”
Recognizing Excellence That Shapes Impact
Reflecting on the significance of the awards, EIT Dean Indumathi V emphasized her alignment with EIT’s mission.
“These awards highlight the core of our mission: delivering high-quality, applied engineering education that genuinely impacts students. This year’s recipients have demonstrated leadership in curriculum development and created supportive, engaging learning environments that make a real difference in our students’ journeys.”
As EIT celebrates its 2025 Teaching Excellence Award winners, it is clear these educators are shaping more than careers. Through experience, innovation, and authentic engagement, they are empowering students to step confidently into industry and contribute to a better, bolder future.