By Aduragbemi Oke
In a bold demonstration of creativity and technical prowess, final-year students from the Department of Mechatronics Engineering, College of Engineering (COLENG), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), staged the 3rd edition of their Annual Final-Year Project Exhibition, captivating attendees with groundbreaking innovations designed to address real-world challenges.
The exhibition featured a diverse range of prototypes and devices, many of which incorporated cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These innovations targeted pressing national issues across sectors such as agriculture, energy, communication, and healthcare.
Among the standout projects were AI-powered drones for precision farming, autonomous drones designed for mail delivery, and smart energy systems built to enhance power efficiency in homes and industries. Other remarkable solutions included a facial recognition-based attendance system, IoT-driven robotic arms responsive to hand gestures, assistive technology for the visually impaired, and a smart water purification system that leverages real-time IoT monitoring to deliver safe, clean drinking water.
The showcase was a testament to the Department’s commitment to fostering problem-solving and innovation-driven education that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Speaking during the event, the Head of Department, Mechatronics Engineering, Engr. Samuel Owoeye, expressed pride in the students’ ingenuity, noting that their ideas underscore the transformative power of youth-led innovation. He stated, “This exhibition is a clear reminder of the enormous potential embedded in the minds of our young engineers. It is imperative that we support and invest in these innovations to build a future that is not only technologically advanced but also sustainable.”
The event drew faculty members, industry experts, and students from across the University, sparking conversations around collaboration, entrepreneurship, and the commercialisation of homegrown technology solutions.
With the growing demand for home-grown tech innovations, the Mechatronics Final-Year Project Exhibition has cemented its place as a platform for nurturing visionary talents poised to reshape Nigeria’s technological landscape.
