Innovative Students Develop Self-Powered Motorcycle and Solar Welding Machine
A group of students at Entebbe Secondary School has successfully designed and built a motorcycle that can power itself without the need for fuel. The self-powered motorcycle prototype was showcased during a Parents Teachers meeting at the school in Entebbe municipality.
The project was undertaken by science students JohnBosco Kaddu, Sharif Segawa, Boban Kazibwe, and Fred Mukiibi, under the supervision of their teacher, Gerald Musoke. The motorcycle is equipped with a unique battery system that recharges itself as the rider continues to use it, ensuring there is no risk of running out of fuel or power.
The students conducted extensive testing, covering over 100 kilometers, and found the self-powered motorcycle to be highly efficient. They traveled from Entebbe to Kampala and back, as well as exploring various areas within Entebbe.
Notably, a significant portion of the materials used for assembling the motorcycle was sourced from scrap, which helped reduce production costs. Musoke emphasized that they were cautious in purchasing materials to avoid contributing to the trade in stolen items under the guise of scrap.
The prototype motorcycle resembles conventional motorcycles in terms of its frame but lacks a traditional engine. Instead, it features a locally manufactured battery in place of the engine, along with a motor chain, shock absorbers, and a smart screen functioning as a dashboard to detect any defects or malfunctions and alert the rider.
The self-powered motorcycle was built in one month and can reach a maximum speed of 200 kilometers per hour. It automatically adjusts gears based on the terrain, eliminating the need for manual gear changes.
Musoke stated that the project will undergo scrutiny and validation by relevant regulatory bodies before proceeding to industrial manufacturing and mass production.
In addition to the self-powered motorcycle, the students, under Musoke’s guidance, also developed a solar-powered welding machine with three batteries and a transformer capable of generating 240 volts. One hour of charging the batteries provides enough power for a week of welding.
Furthermore, the students presented a solar seed dryer constructed using wood, plain mirrors for sunlight reflection, glass, and aluminum foil for sunray absorption. This dryer can effectively remove moisture from seed crops like maize and beans, addressing post-harvest crop handling issues.
Roselyn Tumutendereza, a teacher at Entebbe Secondary School, highlighted that the new lower secondary school curriculum encourages project work, integration activities, creativity, and innovation, allowing learners to apply their knowledge to the real world.
Ruth Muyinda Mande, the headteacher, expressed appreciation for the support received from the National Curriculum Development Centre in implementing the new curriculum. She noted that the curriculum includes projects relevant to real-life applications, emphasizing continuous assessment to measure learners’ competencies over time.
