Makerere University Innovation Pod Launches Skilling Program in Electric Mobility
- The Mak-UniPod is a multidisciplinary innovation space which is fully equipped to support research
- 25 students have been selected to benefit from the program
Makerere University, United Nations development programme, and Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), have launched a skilling program to equip Makerere University students with skills in electric mobility and associated technologies for industrial uptake.
25 students from Makerere University have been selected from Electrical, Biomedical, Software, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, and Bachelor of Science in Physics courses. Of these 10 are female and 15 are male.
Speaking at the launch held at Makerere university, Kiira Motors Corporation, Executive Chairperson Prof. Tickodri-Togboa said that the main objectives of the skilling program include, Equipping students with foundational knowledge in electric vehicle technology, renewable energy systems, battery cell technology, smart grid systems, and electric vehicle powertrains.
Also fostering practical skills development through hands-on training and project-based learning, enabling participants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, and Promoting innovation and problem-solving by exploring innovative solutions and tackling complex challenges in clean energy technologies.
Professor noted that, the scope of the skilling program will encompass a comprehensive range of subjects, including fundamental concepts in electric vehicle technology, renewable energy technologies, fuel cell technology, smart grid systems, and hands-on training with Electric Vehicle Powertrain workbenches.
“This program serves to equip users with the knowledge and expertise necessary to address contemporary challenges in the automotive industry while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector,” said Kiira Motors Corporation Chief Executive Officer Eng. Paul Musaazi, adding that it will also create critical human resource mass to be absorbed by KMC and similar entities.”
UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Nwanne Vwede Obahor added that “The skilling the program aligns with global trends toward net-zero transition so as to keep the global temperature increase below 1.5°C as stipulated in the Paris Agreement on climate change''.
''In 2024, the transport sector emitted 8.24 billion metric tons (GtCO₂), accounting for roughly 21 percent of global CO₂ emissions that year. The transport sector is therefore a crucial area of intervention in combating climate change''. she added.
The curriculum covers electric vehicle (EV) basics, such as the use of battery-powered electric motors and various charging options, including Level 1 (standard home outlets), Level 2 (240-volt outlets), and DC Fast Charging. With Africa facing challenges like rapid urbanization, population growth, and the need for clean energy solutions, adopting electric vehicles offers a transformative opportunity to address these issues, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and support a sustainable future.
The Mak-UniPod is a multidisciplinary innovation space which is fully equipped to support research and development by not only Makerere University students and faculty, but also youth outside the university through nurturing Uganda’s innovation ecosystem.
The Mak-UniPod was established by UNDP Africa’s Timbuktoo initiative which is a joint initiative of UNDP and Africa Influencers for Development (AI4D). Timbuktoo represents a commitment to leverage and catalyze current opportunities in Africa’s startup space and by doing so ensure a sustainable, inclusive, and transformational outcome for youth innovators and entrepreneurs in Africa.