During a recent virtual awards ceremony, Huawei Technologies South Africa awarded eight students from the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT) bursaries to the value of R1,1m in total.

The information and communications technology (ICT) company granted the bursaries to full-time undergraduate and master’s students in order for them to further their studies in their respective specialisation fields.

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Anton Ströh, Vice-Principal for Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Education at UP, said Huawei’s commitment to research and development resonated with the University’s vision of creating and championing globally significant research and innovation. “At the heart of UP’s research strategy is the commitment to pursue ‘research that matters’ – that is, research that matters in transforming lives and communities, and addresses complex societal challenges and, in particular, the challenges that are faced by developing regions in the world. Reimagining the future post-COVID-19 will inevitably need significant further innovative advancements in the areas of ICT and data sciences.”

Prof Ströh concluded by encouraging the bursary recipients to make an impression on the future by embracing the opportunity to create lasting value, empower others and become innovators.

“We believe that South Africa’s talented young people have the potential to mature into world-class experts,” says Kian Chen, Deputy CEO of Huawei South Africa. “By enhancing industry-academic cooperation, as an international ICT company, we hope to make our contribution to achieving the country’s development goals.”

Hector Motsepe, an Information Technology master’s student, considers himself fortunate to have received the scholarship. “If I had not received this bursary, it would not have been possible to register for my master’s degree this year. Upon finishing my studies, Huawei will offer me employment, which is exciting. Working for the company will enhance both my personal and professional skill growth.”

Quincy Cele, a second-year Electronic Engineering student, has also been given the opportunity to complete his studies. “This academic and financial support goes a long way; I do not take this opportunity for granted. Receiving this bursary means that I am closer to realising my dream of becoming an electronic engineer.”