University of Pretoria unveils immersive technology laboratory
May 2024
News
The University of PretoriaÕs faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology is proud to announce the launch of its new Immersive Technology Lab at the Department of Information Science. This cutting-edge facility marks a significant milestone in the universityÕs journey towards integrating advanced immersive technologies into its curriculum and research initiatives.
The Immersive Technology Lab began with the early introduction of virtual reality (VR) technology into the department in 2013. The acquisition of early VR headsets allowed Honours students to immerse themselves in the latest technological innovations. As the appeal of VR grew, the lab evolved into the Virtual Reality and Interaction (VRI) Lab in 2018, to accommodate a larger cohort of students.
The VRI Lab has been instrumental in familiarising students with virtual reality equipment, enabling them to develop applications that leverage the immersive capabilities of this technology. This initiative has ensured that students are equipped with the skills needed to meet the growing demand for immersive technology expertise
In recent years, the lab has played a crucial role in Honours and Masters programmes, with students achieving remarkable success in conceptualising high-calibre VR research applications and developing bespoke applications for their studies. The inauguration of the Immersive Technology Lab in 2024 represents an evolution from the VRI Lab, extending access to immersive technology to the wider university community.
Further reading:
Powering Africa’s industrial Leap at the 2026 Manufacturing Indaba
News
The 2026 Manufacturing Indaba is set to bring together stakeholders to explore how reliable energy can unlock Africa’s industrial future
Read more...
Siemens andDucati extend partnership to advance innovation in MotoGP
News
Siemens Digital Industries Software has renewed its technical partnership agreement with Ducati, and detailed how the Siemens Xcelerator platform has been instrumental in helping the company to create increasingly powerful, safe and sustainable motorcycles.
Read more...
Your chance to make a difference by supporting UKZN’s SMART Lab research
News
UKZN’s SMART Lab is at the forefront of tackling international challenges through innovative, multidisciplinary solutions, and focuses on research that makes a tangible difference to society. Companies affiliated with the SAIMC now have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact through sponsorships.
Read more...
Hitachi Energy named world’s leading supplier of grid automation products and services
News
Hitachi Energy has been recognised as the global market share leader in grid automation for electric power transmission and distribution utilities by ARC Advisory Group.
Read more...
Latest evolution in DesignSpark PCB design software
RS South Africa
News
RS South Africa has announced the local availability of DesignSpark PCB version 13, the latest evolution of its award-winning PCB design software.
Read more...
SKF earns top CDP ratings, reinforcing climate leadership
SKF South Africa
News
SKF has been awarded an A score in the 2024 CDP Supplier Engagement Assessment, placing the company among the global leaders in supplier climate action and transparency.
Read more...
South African project to tackle e-waste
News
Every year millions of electrical and electronic devices and appliances are thrown away. This e-waste can become a threat to both health and the environment if they are not disposed of and recycled properly. Limpopo recently launched its E-Waste for Youth Employment in Limpopo Province project in order to change this narrative.
Read more...
Hans Beckhoff receives German Mechanical Engineering Award
Beckhoff Automation
News
Hans Beckhoff has received the 2025 German Mechanical Engineering Award. This prestigious award honours entrepreneurs who have set standards in machine and system engineering, driven innovation, and taken on social responsibility.
Read more...
Safe solar light for 150 000 people across Africa
RS South Africa
News
RS Group has announced a partnership with international development charity, SolarAid to deliver clean, safe solar lights to 150 000 people living in rural communities across Africa without access to electricity.
Read more...
Regalvanising is a cornerstone of the circular economy
News
Steel can be regalvanised three to four times, effectively doubling the lifespan of key infrastructure for 30% of the replacement cost. That is why the Hot Dip Galvanisers Association of South Africa sees regalvanising as a cornerstone of the circular economy.
Read more...