The Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) marked a significant milestone with its inaugural graduation ceremony in Gaborone, Botswana, celebrating graduate achievements and its growing presence across Southern Africa.
Held at the Cresta Lodge Gaborone, the ceremony welcomed 43 graduates and more than 90 attendees, including family members, industry representatives, academic staff, and distinguished guests, to recognize the achievements of students across a range of engineering and leadership disciplines. The event is part of EIT’s expanding global graduation program, that is now held alongside ceremonies in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, Johannesburg and online. This reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to supporting engineering professionals worldwide.
Engineering Skills for an Evolving World
Anchored by the theme “Engineering Skills for an Evolving World”, the event highlighted the importance of adaptability, innovation, and lifelong learning in today’s rapidly changing engineering landscape. Guests were welcomed by Master of Ceremony Nobantu Seleka (EIT VET Learning Support Officer), who congratulated the graduates on their dedication and perseverance while setting the tone for a celebration of academic achievement and professional growth.
A keynote address was delivered by Registrar/CEO of the Engineers Registration Board, Botswana, Mr. Dennis Aupa Olaotse, wherein he encouraged graduates to embrace lifelong learning, professional adaptability, and ethical engineering leadership as they progress through their careers in a rapidly evolving industry. The program also featured student reflections from Bachelor of Science (Industrial Automation Engineering) graduate, Elijah Chiche Mabenga, and 52884WA Advanced Diploma of Mechanical Engineering Technology graduate, Seaman Tshipile, who both shared personal insights into their educational journeys and the challenges they overcame while studying with EIT.
Celebrating Student Excellence
Graduate presentations were then presented by EIT Course Advisor, Basadibotlhe Patience Sento. This was followed by EIT Recruitment and Business Development Manager Berry Dikotla, who presented the Graduate Special Awards to outstanding students recognized for demonstrating exceptional resilience, innovation, adaptability, academic excellence, and real-world engineering impact throughout their studies:
- The Adaptive Engineering Impact Award: Tawanda Shamudzarira – 52873WA Advanced Diploma of Civil and Structural Engineering
- The Evolving World Award: Talent Kandiyero – 52883WA Advanced Diploma of Applied Electrical Engineering (Electrical Systems)
- The Resilience Award: Keakantse Gabonthone – 52884WA Advanced Diploma of Mechanical Engineering Technology
- The Academic Excellence Award: Kemmonye Tlhasana – 52886WA Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering
Honoring the Educators Behind the Success
In the same spirit of recognition, EIT South Africa General Manager, Kerry Marques, presented the Teaching Excellence Awards to lecturers and educators recognized for their outstanding contribution to engineering education globally. The segment also featured video acceptance messages from the recipients, which added a personal dimension to the celebration of their achievements.
“These dedicated educators represent the heart of EIT.” Kerry said,” “Through their passion, innovation, and commitment, they inspire curiosity, ignite potential, and shape the next generation of engineers.”
The Teaching Excellence Award recipients included:
- Frikkie Marx – Lecturer, Mechanical Engineering (VET Category)
- Danie Stoop – Lecturer, Industrial Automation (VET Category)
- Saeideh Sekhavat – Lecturer, Electrical Engineering (Higher Education Category)
- Dr. Ana Evangelista – Lecturer, Civil Engineering (Higher Education Category)
Strengthening Industry Ties
EIT Graduation & Special Events Manager, Arna Eru, said that the inaugural Botswana ceremony held particular significance for the institution and its wider community. “The success of this first Gaborone graduation reflects the growing community of engineering professionals across Botswana and Southern Africa who are advancing their careers through flexible, industry-focused education.” Special guests attending the event included Tlhalefang Sepato (Technical Trainer at Coca-Cola Beverages), Gaolathe N. Kelesitse (Plant Manager at Botswana Meat Commission), and Robert Onkamile (Talent, Learning and Development Manager at Naledi Mining Services).
Following the formal proceedings, graduates and guests came together to celebrate the milestone during a post-ceremony networking event. This marked the beginning of new professional journeys. It also strengthened industry connections forged on the day. The inaugural Gaborone graduation now stands as a defining moment in EIT’s global calendar, that highlights its expanding footprint and commitment to developing engineering professionals equipped not only for today’s challenges, but for the future they will help shape.