Blueprints and dreams: The start of a civil engineering career

For Twiindileni T. Uugwanga, engineering is more than a career. It is a calling rooted in purpose, sustainability and service to others. Fresh from earning his bachelor of science in civil engineering from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa, he is already putting his passion into practice.

“I’ve always believed civil engineers are everyday superheroes,” he says. “We solve real-world problems that improve lives, from clean water to better transport systems.”

Originally motivated by a desire to uplift Namibian communities, Uugwanga sees infrastructure not as static structures but as living proof of innovation and legacy. His academic journey was far from easy.

Adapting to a new country, limited finances and rigorous coursework was, at times, challenging, but he credits a strong support system of mentors, lecturers and friends for helping him thrive.

“Teamwork really did make the dream work,” Uugwanga says.

That drive paid off. His final-year project, a reinforced concrete basement parking design, and his dissertation on photovoltaic roofing solutions both earned high recognition.

“Those awards validated the hard work,” he says. “But more importantly, they affirmed that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand.”

Now working as an in-training engineer, Uugwanga is focused on mastering project management and engineering design, all while contributing to sustainable infrastructure for Namibia.

“This degree didn’t just teach me engineering, it taught me confidence,” he says. “I feel like a modern-day superhero now.”

Inspired by mentors at OTESA Civil Engineering, Uugwanga aims to register with the Engineering Council of Namibia and one day lead impactful projects himself.

To others considering further study, he offers this advice: “Do it. Yes, it is hard, but it is worth it. Discipline, perseverance, and asking for help – that is the key."

He also shares a quote from the book of James: "Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.”

Uugwanga says he celebrated his graduation with a traditional Namibian braai surrounded by family and friends, a fitting tribute to hard work during his studies.

What surprised him most about his studies? “No two engineers will solve the same problem the same way. That is the beauty of it – engineering is an art.”