The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun, Dr Mukail Akinde, has elaborated on the institution’s recent invention of an electric automated tricycle.
According to Dr Akinde, the success of this commercial production is crucial for reducing importation, alleviating pressure on foreign exchange, and creating job opportunities for youths.
Dr Akinde made these comments on Friday during an inspection of the institution’s innovation centre by the Governing Council, led by its Chairman Alhaji Garba Gashua, and the National Automotive Design and Development Council.
The electric automated tricycle, built and assembled at the polytechnic’s innovation centre, marks a significant achievement as it is the first of its kind produced by an academic institution.
He stated, “The success of this tricycle will significantly cut down our reliance on imports, reduce the pressure on our foreign exchange, and provide numerous job opportunities for our youths.”
The rector called on the Federal Government and corporate organizations, particularly within the manufacturing sector, to support the polytechnic’s efforts to bring this invention to commercial production.
Dr. Akinde emphasized the need for collaboration with partners like Innoson to advance the prototype into a commercially viable product.
“The current prototype is designed to accommodate the rider and two passengers and will feature a solar-powered panel for charging.
We aim to establish a mini assembly plant capable of producing at least 10 tricycles or more,” he said.
Dr Akinde also expressed his hope to see the tricycle in production on campus by next season, and he appealed for increased funding to support further innovations, research, and development at the institution.
