A section of the projects showcased by the students.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s (MMUST) Final Year students pursuing Engineering have taken innovations a notch higher during the First Annual Engineering Projects Exhibition which took place on 31st March, 2023. The event organized by the MMUST Engineering Students Association (ESA), was geared towards recognizing the efforts of engineers in the University. This was marked by a tree planting exercise, projects exhibition, and a Dinner which were presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo at the Main Catering Unit (MCU) 001.
Applauding the students, Prof. Shibairo noted that engineering is one of the flagship programs in the University which started during the establishment of the institution; Western college (WECO). He acknowledged the upcoming TVET and Engineering Complex and challenged the engineers to take up the place and elevate engineering. “I am impressed with the innovative ideas of our students. Let us scale up what we have and spur in this area of professionalism” he urged.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo at the tent where the 5th year students pursuing Mechanical and Industrial Engineering; Ms. Jackline Otieno (left) and Ms. Peres Agina showcasing their project (Semi-Automated Hydraulic Machine used for making construction materials.
Expressing delight about the event, the Dean School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE), Prof. Bernadette Sabuni pointed out that MMUST is a hub of innovations and the prototypes exhibited is a proof that the School is doing an exemplary job. “The students are in the learning process and I am pleased with the ideas which are up to date on the industry trends. I am proud to be a mother of innovators,” she stated.
Speaking during the dinner, the former President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), Eng. Nathaniel Matalanga, noted that engineering is the home of innovations. He urged the University to take advantage of the treasure to grow the faculty, adding that the projects enhance students’ professional development and practical experience. Eng. Matalanga guaranteed collaborative efforts between MMUST and the Engineering Board of Kenya (EBK) to advance engineering studies at the University.
“It is my pleasure to share the final stage with you. A wise man shares ideas and I am happy that you have shared your ideas with us. Let us do better to change livelihoods in society. I urge you to register with the Engineering Board of Kenya (EBK) and become professional engineers,” stated Eng. Matalanga. He also advocated for proposal writing regarding the projects to turn the ideas into actual innovations, as well as allocation of funds for training the young engineers. In addition, he encouraged postgraduate studies in South Africa which is a member of the International Engineering Alliance for them to get international recognition.
The former President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), Eng. Nathaniel Matalanga planting a tree to commemorate the event.
According to the speech of the President IEK, Eng. Erick Ohaga, engineering is a diverse and fast-growing area of professionalism. It has played a critical role in shaping the world and engineers look forward to shaping the future. “We are cognizant that the projects are efforts of the students with the help of their devoted lecturers. Hard work and dedication will benefit society. It is your time to shine, utilize the opportunity, and grow your career. IEK is proud to be associated with MMUST,” said Eng. Matalanga.
The Chairman of the Department (Civil and Structural Engineering), Dr. Micah Mukolwe who is also the Patron of ESA, applauded the sponsors for their support towards the success of the event. He stated that the event offered an opportunity for the students to interact with the key industrial players as they network on the issues pertaining to the career in gaining practical skills. Concurring with the Patron, the Secretary General of ESA, Mr. Isaac Okeyo acknowledged that the seamless process enabled the students to market their rich talents to the market players. He added that the association looks forward to more of such events.
A section of the event sponsors together with the Vice-Chancellor and the Dean, School of Engineering and Built Environment.
Notably, the exhibitions brought together MMUST Engineering Alumni represented by Eng. Michael Outa (Western Region Manager, KeRRA), Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) represented by Eng. Patrick Jangaya, Kenya Power and Lightning Company (KPLC) represented by Eng. Jennes Wafula, Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) represented by Eng. Rose Opiyo, Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) represented by Eng. Joseph Kimuyu, SEBE Staff members, as well as the students pursuing Engineering. The sponsors assured their support to the University in growing the students’ practical skills.
Some of the key projects showcased by the students included; Regenerative Braking System, Automatic Smart Toilet, Power Hacksaw and Shaper Machine, Semi-Automated Hydraulic Machine, Automatic Smart Waste Bin, Vehicles Weight Governor, Motor-Solar Panel and Battery Bicycle, Air Cooled Carbonization Chimney, Bedini Monopole Battery Charging System, Beehive Monitoring and Control System, Manual Grass Planter and Energy Production Machine, as well as Wasting and Positioning Machine.
Third-year students pursuing Diploma in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering; Mr. Collins Kibet and Mr. Ian Osoro exhibiting Power Hacksaw and Shaper Machine during the event.
Clearly, the School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE) has goals for the future of the innovative ideas of its students to ensure the ideas are enhanced through such events as well as through incorporating key players in the area of engineering. This will be effective in the establishment of long-term objectives for the success of the students as well as the production of market-driven professionals.
By Verna Awuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
