SAICE - Geotechnical Division

We’re a dynamic, volunteer-run committee proudly part of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE).

Our mission? Keeping geotechnical professionals at the forefront of innovation and best practices in South Africa. From industry meetups and expert lectures to hands-on courses, we’re all about sharing knowledge that matters.

Our committee consists of practicing geotechnical engineers from diverse industries, bringing a variety of skills and knowledge to promote the interests of our members.

We’re here to connect scientists and engineers, spark new ideas, and promote safe, practical, and cutting-edge geotechnical methods. Whether it’s groundbreaking research or game-changing construction techniques, we ensure the best of soil mechanics and foundation engineering reaches the South African geotechnical community.

Our Aims

At the South African Geotechnical Division, we strive to:

  • Foster Collaboration: Build strong connections between scientists and engineers.
  • Share Knowledge: Create opportunities to exchange ideas and expertise.
  • Spread Innovation: Promote groundbreaking research and cutting-edge techniques in soil mechanics and foundation engineering.
  • Champion Best Practices: Advocate for safe, cost-effective, and modern geotechnical methods across South Africa.

How We Achieve This

  • Active involvement with the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering.
  • Organising regional conferences and symposia to bring professionals together.
  • Hosting meetings and events nationwide throughout the year.
  • Offering educational courses tailored for practising engineers.
  • Publishing a newsletter to keep members informed and inspired.

We also collaborate closely with engineering geologists and rock mechanics specialists, ensuring a well-rounded approach to advancing the field.

 

Committee members

André Archer
André Archer
Chairman
Frans van der Merwe
Frans van der Merwe
Secretary
Linda Spies
Linda Spies
Treasurer
Kate Lauwrens
Kate Lauwrens
Awards
Massyn Harmse
Massyn Harmse
Evening Lecture
Jano du Plessis
Jano du Plessis
Sponsorship
Mario Schulz-Poblete
Mario Schulz-Poblete
Events
Michael Sinclair
Michael Sinclair
Marketing & Publication
Charles MacRobert
Charles MacRobert
Codes & Standards
Annelie Scholtz
Annelie Scholtz
CPD
Tinus Grobler
Tinus Grobler
Technical Committees
Craig Edmonds
Craig Edmonds
University Liaison
Vuyisile Dlamini
Vuyisile Dlamini
YMPG
John Pavlakis
John Pavlakis
Immediate Past Chair
Trevor Green
Trevor Green
Advisor
Jacobus Breyl
Jacobus Breyl
Advisor
Bazi Dukhan
Bazi Dukhan
Durban Representative
Denis Kalumba
Denis Kalumba
Cape Town Representative

Associations & Organisations

SAIGE Geotechnical Division presents:

Call for Abstracts: 11th South African Young Geotechnical Engineers Conference (SAYGEC) 2026

Date: September 2026
Venue: To be announced

Young geotechnical professionals under 35 working in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, mining, or civil construction will have the opportunity to showcase their work at the 11th South African Young Geotechnical Engineers Conference (SAYGEC), taking place in September 2026 in the Central Drakensberg.

Find out more