The Team

The multidisciplinary team consisting of researchers and students from the NWU’s Electric and Mechanical faculties of engineering as well as the Centre for Human Health and Performance (CHHP) will be competing in the Cybathlon for the first time in 2024 in the Leg Prosthesis Race. The pilot is Ian Thomson, a 28-year-old with a unilateral above-knee amputation. Ian lost his leg in a car accident when he was 16, but thanks to modern prosthesis, he remains active.

Mission and Vision

Vision Statement:

"Together, through our dedication to research and development of pioneering assistive device technologies at NWU, we aim to discover new frontiers and opportunities that benefit and impact society by empowering individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives"

Mission Statement:

"We, a small yet passionate team at NWU, are driven by a fervent desire to meaningfully impact lives through our research. With sincerity and enthusiasm, we strive to enhance the affordability and availability of rehabilitation and prosthetic devices, fostering a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. United on this transformative journey, we endeavour to change the world for the better, one prosthetic at a time."

Team profiles

A select group of five dedicated members from our team at NWU are gearing up to represent us at the prestigious Cybathlon event in Zurich. Their expertise and commitment to innovation make them ideal ambassadors for our institution on this global stage.

Prof André Grobler

Team Manager

Mr. Ian Thomson

Projects Coordinator, Prosthetic leg designer & Pilot

Dr. Jan-Hendrik Kruger

Study Leader & Management Team

Mr. Jéan-Pierre van Deventer

Business Development & Electronic Consultant

Mr. Henry van Niekerk

Master's Student

In addition to their participation in the Cybathlon event, the following members are integral parts of our Cybathlon team, diligently working on projects directly related to Cybathlon objectives. Their involvement extends beyond the competition, as they contribute their expertise to advance the field of assistive technology and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.