The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Rescue Simulation Centre has been named Overall Winner of the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) Steel Awards 2026, recognised for its innovative structural design, technical excellence and contribution to specialist rescue training.

The project also claimed the Architectural Category award at the ceremony held at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, as SAISC celebrated 70 years of advancing steel construction through technical expertise, industry collaboration and the recognition of excellence.

Located on UJ's Doornfontein Campus, the Rescue Simulation Centre incorporates multiple specialist training environments. Its hybrid concrete-and-steel structure features adaptable walkways, reconfigurable walkways, removable handrails and integrated fixing points, demonstrating how innovative engineering can meet complex operational requirements while accommodating future needs.

The judging panel highlighted sustainability and technical excellence as defining qualities, recognising the project's structural efficiency, adaptability and contribution to developing life-saving skills.

The project was nominated and structurally engineered by EDS Engineering Design Services, with P-Wise Projects as main contractor, Impendulo Design Architects as architect, and Churchyard & Umpleby Construction responsible for steelwork contracting and detailing.

Recognising the capabilities of an industry

Beyond the individual achievements, the Steel Awards 2026 showcased the depth and diversity of Southern Africa's steel construction capabilities.

From industrial and mining infrastructure to commercial developments, educational facilities and projects delivered beyond South Africa's borders, the winning projects demonstrate the expertise, innovation and collaboration that continue to define the industry.

Nicolette Skjoldhammer, Chairwoman of SAISC, emphasised the importance of translating these capabilities into meaningful opportunities.

“The Steel Awards demonstrate that South Africa does not lack the skills, expertise or technical capability to deliver world-class steel construction projects. What our industry needs is the opportunity to put those capabilities to work. We should be celebrating these achievements, but more importantly, we should be ensuring that South African companies are given the opportunity to compete, grow and contribute meaningfully to rebuilding our industrial economy.”

Celebrating 70 years – and building for the future

Since its establishment in 1956, SAISC has contributed to the development of Southern Africa's steel construction industry through technical guidance, education, standards development and industry collaboration.

Its 70th anniversary recognises generations of engineers, architects, detailers, fabricators, contractors and industry professionals whose expertise has shaped the built environment.

The milestone also brings renewed focus to sustaining those capabilities and strengthening the foundations for future industry growth.

Amanuel Gebremeskel, Chief Executive Officer of SAISC, highlighted the importance of connecting the achievements recognised at the Awards with the industry's long-term competitiveness.

“The projects recognised at this year's Steel Awards demonstrate the depth of engineering expertise, innovation and technical capability within our steel construction industry. Maintaining this level of excellence requires more than outstanding design and fabrication. It depends on consistent material quality, reliable supply, skilled professionals and collaboration across the value chain. As SAISC enters its next chapter, our focus is on strengthening these foundations through technical guidance, quality initiatives, skills development and industry collaboration, helping to secure a more competitive steel construction sector.”

Industry partnership in recognising excellence

The Steel Awards are made possible through industry partnerships that support the recognition of technical achievement and excellence across the steel construction value chain.

Main Sponsor Unica Iron and Steel reaffirmed its commitment to recognising the industry's capabilities and achievements.

“A strong South African steel industry depends on quality, competitive local manufacturing and collaboration across the entire value chain. From the production of steel to the design and construction of complex structures, every participant has a role in building industry confidence and long-term competitiveness. Through our support of the Steel Awards, we are proud to recognise the expertise and achievements that demonstrate the potential of our industry.” — Mohammed Asif Qasim, Managing Director, Unica Iron and Steel

As SAISC marks seven decades of service to the industry, the Steel Awards 2026 reinforce the connection between the technical knowledge built over generations and the capabilities demonstrated by today's project teams.

The achievements recognised this year provide more than a celebration of completed structures. They offer tangible examples of the expertise, ingenuity and collaboration that will be essential to building a stronger, more competitive steel construction industry across Southern Africa and beyond.