Summa Cum Laude Master’s Graduate Shines as Female Engineer

The engineering whiz from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment graduated with a Master’s in Building Science Engineering summa cum laude three days ago, and now she is shining in a traditionally male-dominated industry with her ambition, determination and fearlessness.

In her own words, Sila said it took some motivation for her to get this far in her studies. The beginnings of my life have been humble. Besides the teachings and support from my mentor, who strongly encouraged the youth to go to school, it was also my church, Jesus Dominion International in the Eastern Cape, and the teachings. Church leaders still stress the importance of educating youth. My mentor’s life is a gift from God,” she said.

Summa Cum Laude Master’s Graduate Shines as Female Engineer

A passion for math, science, and the built environment developed in Sila while he was growing up. TUT drew her attention with its engineering qualifications and quality of graduates when she decided to take a National Diploma in Building Science and then a BTech in Construction Management.

Prof Justius Agumba supervised Sila’s master’s thesis in which she examined predictors of small and medium construction enterprises’ adoption of building information modelling for health and safety.

The contribution of Prof Agumba to Sila’s research elevated it well above the mediocre, she said. Her appreciation for his knowledge, guidance, and support was heartfelt. During this time of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), we are experiencing rapid technological advancements, which would benefit the construction industry at large through the application of this research,” said Sila, who is grateful for this experience.

Despite the challenges that I encountered on the way to a Master’s degree, I believed that giving up was never an option. The determination to complete my degree was extreme, and I was able to do so, cum laude.”

Currently, Sila is collaborating with Prof Agumba to publish a journal article as well as a conference paper.

“ I am about to embark on my PhD journey, and there is no limit to what I can accomplish,” concluded Sila