A group of engineering students from UniSQ have put their skills and knowledge to good use in Fiji as part of the initiative. This government-supported program aims to build strong connections and shared knowledge between Australian undergraduates and their peers in the Indo-Pacific region.
The UniSQ mechanical engineering students spent two weeks at the where they collaborated with local students to design a solar banana dryer, a project that not only showcased their engineering expertise but also highlighted the importance of sustainability.
The project was a fantastic opportunity for the students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. They learned about innovative development methods and trends used in the Pacific region, gaining valuable insights into mechanical component design. The final product, a solar banana dryer, can dry 20 kilograms of bananas in around six hours, significantly reducing waste and making a positive impact on the local community.
UniSQ is committed to fostering global relationships and preparing our students for career success.One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was the industry connections our students made. Working alongside local students and professionals allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of the technical and cultural aspects of the region. These experiences are invaluable, offering our students a genuine insight into the engineering field.
UniSQ lecturer Dr. Senadeera emphasised the importance of these industry connections, stating, "This project helped students think about the importance of sustainability in engineering and taught them how to harness and optimise natural resources. Another big aspect of this project was the connections. Students learn about the technical and cultural aspects of our neighboring countries, which they will carry forward in their careers."
