Sweet Success: My Transformative Internship at Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation

As a student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the University of ESwatini and a proud member of the STEM Empowerment Hub, I recently embarked on an exciting internship journey at the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation. This experience has been nothing short of amazing, and I can't wait to share the highlights with you.

From day one, the RES team welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a valued member of their community. The opportunity to work alongside experts in the agricultural industry has been invaluable. Through hands-on experience, I've gained a deeper understanding of the various processes involved in sugar production, as well as the challenges faced by the industry and innovative solutions being developed to address them.

One of my most notable achievements during this internship was designing a pump station using AutoCAD software. This challenge truly allowed me to shine and demonstrate my problem-solving skills. Additionally, I had the chance to be involved in various construction activities, where I applied my knowledge of land surveying principles, welding, bearing replacement and earthmoving operations. These hands-on experiences not only honed my technical skills but also strengthened my confidence and ability to adapt in real-world situations.

Furthermore, being part of the STEM Empowerment Hub as a social media manager has allowed me to share my passion for agricultural engineering with a wider audience. I have had the privilege to connect with fellow students, professionals and enthusiasts, fostering meaningful relationships and collaborations that will continue to benefit me as I progress in my career.

In conclusion, my internship at Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation has been an incredible learning experience. It has provided me with a strong foundation to build upon as I complete my studies and embark on a career in agricultural engineering. I am immensely grateful to the RES team and STEM Empowerment Hub for their guidance and support throughout this journey.

To fellow students and aspiring engineers, I highly recommend seeking out internships that align with your interests and goals. It's an excellent way to gain practical experience, network with industry professionals and grow both personally and professionally.

As I look forward to what the future holds, I'll always remember my time at RES and the invaluable lessons I've learned. This journey has allowed me to turn my "diamond in the rough" moments, like designing a pump station and working on various construction activities, into invaluable experiences that will shape my future as an agricultural engineer.