Chronicle Editor
Yolanda Mlilo, Sunday Life Reporter
AT just 22, Andrew Chigona, a mechatronics engineering student at Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT), is already making waves in the field of robotics.
With two innovation awards under his belt, Chigona has showcased his ingenuity by developing a hybrid system aimed at enhancing quality control and optimising heat recovery in industrial settings.
As the founder of the Robotics Club at his university, Chigona’s passion for robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) drives his ambition to create solutions that improve people’s lives.
In a recent interview with Sunday Life, he shared insights into his ground-breaking projects.
“I designed a lie detector for a competition where we were challenged to be creative with limited components,” Chigona explained.
“It was intended for use in official meetings to monitor participants’ moods and actions for safety reasons, and I’m proud to say I received an award for it.”
His hybrid system project was developed for a technofest hackathon at Chinhoyi University, aimed at ensuring the quality of goods produced by manufacturers and minimising energy loss through heat.
“My enthusiasm for robotics and AI led me to undertake this journey of learning and experimentation,” he said.
“I focus on inventions that address specific challenges faced in Zimbabwe, especially in agriculture and automation.”
Despite his accomplishments, Chigona is aware of the hurdles he faces in the world of electronics.
“The most challenging aspect is ensuring projects are energy-efficient and that power is distributed correctly. In software, debugging errors can be a significant obstacle,” he noted.
“I aim for my inventions to seamlessly incorporate the latest technologies, including AI and robotics.”
Chigona has ambitious plans for future projects, including the establishment of a smart greenhouse equipped with AI for plant monitoring and early disease detection through drones equipped with cameras.
His two awards, including recognitions from the Seitt Innovation high school competition and TME, a Polish-based company, have only fuelled his determination.
“Winning these awards serves as a reminder of the hard work I put in to achieve my goals and I’m excited for what lies ahead,” he shared.
“Hard work can create a strong brand and I always strive for more. I look up to role models like Elon Musk for inspiration.”
Chigona believes that success requires patience and a commitment to staying abreast of technology trends.
Online Reporter