UNIPOD and it’s startup Ingeli Engineering and Technologies (InET) have jointly equipped 12 students with mechanical skills to support the development of their hand. The eight-week training program took place in the premises of the UNIPOD.
The training covered key areas including 3D Design, 3D printing, CNC, Lazer Cutting, and IoT basics. Participants received guidance from experienced mentors who helped refine and develop their innovative concepts.
The program was organized by InET, an initiative aimed at bringing together passionate students of great minds equipping each other (peer to peer learning) with practical engineering and manufacturing skills in addition to their engineering knowledge.
Fortune, a first-year student in mechanical engineering and one of the program’s beneficiaries, shared her experience: “Besides design, we also learned 3D printing. I got more than I expected.”
Fortune is working on a data-based automated roof system. Her idea was inspired by the need to protect harvests that are often damaged due to the inability to predict rainfall. Her innovation aims to automate roof closure when rain is detected, helping farmers prevent crop loss.
Another participant, also a mechanical engineering student, is developing a handwriting robot designed to assist people with writing disabilities which can also act as a computer.
“This program helped me improve my project by providing the skills and equipment I needed. We came in with ideas, developed prototypes, and brought them to life. The instructors were always ready to guide and support us,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Pascal Nyiringango, Head of UNIPOD, urged the graduates to focus on their present actions as the foundation for their future. “At your age, it is time to think about your role in national development and to think big,” he said.
He also emphasized key values for success. “To be successful, you need resilience. Don’t rush for money. Be creative, innovative, and foster a spirit of teamwork. That’s how your innovations will bear fruit”, he said.
