Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU) proved that innovation knows no limits at the Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition on Education and Skills Development (ARC-EDS 2025), held at the Accra International Conference Centre, Ghana, from 5th – 7th August, 2025. After a fierce competition amongst innovative entries submitted by ten (10) Technical Universities, Traditional Universities, and other private companies, CCTU’s Solartrike, a game-changing creation, clinched 3rd place in the overall exhibition awards.                                  

Born from the CCTU’s Engineering Design and Innovation Centre’s vision and powered by funding from the Energy Commission, Ghana, the Solartrike redefines mobility through the lens of the circular economy: Reuse, Product Life Extension, Renewable Integration, and Eco-Design. It does not build new tricycles; it transforms existing petrol-powered ones into clean, solar-powered electric vehicles.

Its standout features include:

• Range: 120–150 km on a single charge—enough to go from Cape Coast to Kasoa, Ghana, without stopping.
• Maintenance-Free Drive: No oil changes or filters required.
• Silent Ride: An electric motor that hums with quiet efficiency.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero tailpipe emissions for a greener Ghana.
• Passenger Comfort: Safety seatbelts and free onboard Wi-Fi.

Over the three-day event, the Solartrike stole the spotlight. Bearing the playful invitation “Let’s Go For A Ride”, it became a magnet for curious visitors. Guests did not just admire it, they experienced it, enjoying free rides that showcased its quiet, smooth, and eco-friendly performance.                             

The Solartrike was not the only exhibit submitted. Alongside it, CCTU also showcased the Hydrogen Mini Production System, with both exhibits selected from a pool of entries submitted by its competitors. Out of the numerous submissions, only seventeen (17) exhibits made the cut, and CCTU’s duo stood tall among the best.

By the end of day two, the Solartrike’s impact was undeniable. It was shortlisted among the top five (5) exhibits and invited to a high-stakes, three-minute pitch at the conference’s climax. The Solartrike won 3rd place at the end of the competition, a proud moment for the University and a clear signal that its innovation is making waves far beyond campus. The win affirms CCTU’s commitment to promoting renewable energy, the University’s niche area, and has strengthens its expertise in Electric Vehicle development and Charging Hub design       

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An eight-member team led by Engr. Dr. Kwame Anane-Fenin (Director of Engineering Design and Innovation Centre), carried the torch for CCTU. The other members of the team comprised staff: Mr. Gabriel Mwinkume (Competency-Based Training Coordinator), Engr. Samuel Garriba, and Engr. John Boakye, and four (4) talented final-year B.Tech Mechanical Engineering students: Mr. John Obeng, Miss. Theresah Gabriel, Mr. Kingsford Kwaku Ansah, and Mr.Asuako Junior Sakyi.

ARC-EDS 2025, themed: “Harnessing Entrepreneurship and Innovation to Tackle Youth Unemployment” was an initiative of ESDEV foundation Africa which focused on equipping Africa’s youth with future-ready skills, fostering entrepreneurial mindsets, and strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation.

From conference floors to community roads, the Solartrike carries a promise: that with creativity, engineering, and a commitment to sustainability, CCTU can build a future where innovation powers progress and protects our planet. The Solartrike is more than a vehicle—it’s a vision on wheel    

Source: Directorate of Public Affairs

August 14, 2025