A South African-produced video showcasing sustainable automotive technologies has taken top honours at the prestigious 2025 CAETS Communication Prize, beating entries from nine other countries including the United States, United Kingdom, China and India.
The five-minute video, “Sustainable Automotive Technologies: A TUT Case Study,” created by Dr Christiaan Oosthuizen of Tshwane University of Technology’s Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering and Fellow Prof Barend van Wyk, DVC for Teaching, Learning and Technology, captured the judges’ attention for its innovative approach to communicating engineering’s role in building a sustainable future.
Announced during the gala dinner at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Council of Academies of Engineering and Technological Sciences (CAETS) in Brisbane on 10 September, the win not only secures international recognition for South African engineering excellence but also provides a powerful platform to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
The prize covers full conference registration, travel and accommodation (up to US$5,000), plus an additional US$5,000 award. Dr Oosthuizen accepted the award on behalf of the team from Luca Noldus, Chair of the CAETS Communication Committee.
The annual CAETS Communication Competition rewards the world’s most outstanding audiovisual storytelling about innovation in engineering and technological sciences, aiming to educate the public and motivate students to pursue STEM careers. The 2026 competition will open on 1 October 2025. Interested entrants can contact office@saae.co.za for details.
Founded in 1992, the South African Academy of Engineering (SAAE) brings together eminent engineers across all disciplines to advise government, champion innovation and act as role models for young professionals. Its membership in CAETS since 2009 has enabled South African engineering voices to be heard on the global stage — and this award signals that the country’s contributions to sustainable technology are resonating worldwide.
