News

The University of Botswana's School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (SEME) recently demonstrated its commitment to innovation, research and practical problem-solving through a successful Open Day Engineering Projects Competition held on the 8th and 12th May 2026.

Organised by the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and the Department of Computer and Telecommunications Engineering, the competition brought together aspiring engineers who showcased cutting-edge projects designed to address real-world challenges in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, environmental management, transportation, energy and public safety.

Speaking at the opening sessions on both days, Head of School, Professor Sajid M. Sheikh, welcomed participants and commended students for translating classroom knowledge into practical solutions with the potential to positively impact society. He encouraged students to continue developing technologies that addressed Botswana's developmental needs and contribute to national economic transformation.

The event provided students with an opportunity to present prototypes developed through their academic studies while exposing them to industry-standard evaluation processes. It also served as a platform for promoting creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship among future engineers.

Further, the competition attracted numerous innovative projects incorporating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), renewable energy systems, robotics and drone technology.

Among the projects exhibited were a Solar-Powered IoT Edge Rover for Correct Pesticide Dispensation; Smart Microcontroller-Based Prosthetic Limb; Virtual Fence for Livestock and Pasture Management; Smart Livestock Tracking System Using AI; Wildlife Surveillance Drone; Smart Air Quality Monitoring and Health Risk Prediction System as well as AI-Based Drone System for Real-Time Greenhouse Plant Health Monitoring and Automatic Spraying.

Furthermore, students also developed solutions aimed at enhancing public safety and infrastructure management including a Drunk Driving Detector for Safe Driving Systems, Anti-Sleeping Alarm for Drivers, IoT-Enabled Smart Motor Protection and Monitoring System as well as Intelligent Outdoor Street Solar Lighting System.

The projects were assessed by a panel of judges using a structured grading rubric, focusing on innovation, technical excellence, functionality, relevance and potential impact. Participants had the opportunity to demonstrate their prototypes and explain the technologies underpinning their solutions.

The competition saw the top honour go to Salome Iris Kidmond and Koketso Bathamile for their project titled Temperature Mapping Drone with Extinguishing System for Firefighting Support. The innovative solution combines aerial monitoring and fire suppression capabilities to support firefighting operations. The duo received first prize, comprising P3000 and certificates. The second place was awarded to Mosa Molefe and Williards Divasi for their project, Design and Implementation of an IoT-Enabled Smart Motor Protection and Monitoring System, earning them P1 500 and certificates. Meanwhile, third place went to Aobakwe Moseki for the project Design and Implementation of an Anti-Sleeping Alarm for Drivers which received P500 and a certificate.

The Open Day Engineering Projects Competition highlighted the quality of engineering education at the University of Botswana and demonstrated the institution's dedication to nurturing graduates equipped with the skills required to drive technological advancement and sustainable development. The event further underscored the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment's role in fostering innovation and producing practical solutions to local and global challenges.

With Botswana continuing to embrace digital transformation and knowledge-driven economic growth, initiatives such as the SEME Open Day Engineering Projects Competition provide a valuable platform for students to develop industry-relevant skills while contributing innovative ideas capable of shaping the future.