By Saheed Ibrahim

In a remarkable stride towards sustainable innovation, students from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, have successfully transformed a traditional petrol-powered motorcycle into a fully functional electric motorcycle.

The achievement has sparked widespread applause from students and alumni, who called on the government, corporate organisations, research institutions, and individuals to support the university’s ongoing efforts to address societal challenges through practical solutions.

The project, led by six students from the Department of Physics and Electronics — Abdulazeez Uthman Alabi, Adejoro Glory Isaac, Odetokun Opeyemi Oluwatosin, Adejunmobi David Ademola, Aladesanmi Emmanuel, and Olaniyi Eniola — responds to pressing issues such as high fuel costs and environmental sustainability.

Mr Kunle Adetoba, former president of the AAUA Alumni Association and former member of the university’s governing council, commended the team for their pioneering work, noting that the conversion to an electric motorcycle addresses transportation challenges intensified by subsidy removal and high energy costs.

He said, “This project is not only timely but also eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable. It showcases AAUA’s commitment to solving societal issues, exemplifying the institution’s core mandate to respond positively to challenges with cutting-edge solutions.”

Adetoba emphasised the need for adequate funding to sustain research and development in Nigerian universities.

“Without sufficient funding, innovative efforts like these will remain mere wishful thinking.

“The government and private sector should look to universities like AAUA for solutions to our challenges. With the right support, we can build a nation we’re all proud of,” he said.

Another alumnus of the institution, Ayodele Oluwasemilore praised the innovation, calling it a testament to AAUA’s standing as a forward-thinking institution.

“This achievement further solidifies AAUA’s position as a university that nurtures talent and champions 21st-century solutions,” Ayodele noted.

The institution’s Student Union President, Oyindamola Samuel Boladale, said the innovation is indicative of the high standards maintained by the university and the dedication of its members to produce graduates who are prepared to tackle real-world challenges with innovative solutions.

In a statement, he called for robust support for AAUA, highlighting how the project underscores the students’ technical expertise and aligns with the global movement towards sustainable, energy-efficient technologies.