By Andrew Tyoh
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) is exploring potential partnerships with the Mechanical Engineering Department (MET) of the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi (FPTB) to boost local processing of raw materials. A recent working visit by the RMRDC Bauchi State Coordinating Office highlighted the departments’ impressive facilities and expertise in design, fabrication, automation, and advanced manufacturing.
During the visit, the RMRDC delegation, led by the Bauchi State Coordinator, Mr. Turaki Wambai, visited and inspected a locally designed and fabricated sweet potato processing machine at the school. The innovative machine is intended for washing, peeling, and slicing sweet potatoes, offering a significant step towards efficient small-scale processing. The Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department at FPTB Engr. Abubakar M. Aliyu explained the machine’s workings and its potential benefits. He commented, “This machine represents our department’s commitment to finding practical engineering solutions for local agricultural needs. We believe it can greatly assist small businesses in processing sweet potatoes more effectively.”
In response, the Bauchi State Coordinator, Mr. Turaki Wambai, noted that the facility is well equipped and can foster value-addition processes in the potato value chain. He proposed several collaborative opportunities, such as joint efforts to further develop and commercialise the sweet potato processing machine, potentially offering technical support and market connections. They also suggested exploring joint projects utilizing the CNC machine for prototyping and fabrication relevant to local raw materials processing.
The RMRDC delegation also toured the department’s specialized workshops, including one housing a sophisticated Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machine. This advanced equipment can create prototypes and fabricate equipment crucial for processing locally available raw materials. Mr.Wambai expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are very impressed with the capabilities we have witnessed here at the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi. The sweet potato processing machine and the CNC machine, in particular, hold significant promise for advancing local industrial development.”
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The RMRDC delegation expressed appreciation to the Polytechnic management for the welcoming reception and insightful presentations, signaling a positive outlook for future mutually beneficial collaborations.
