LIRA, UGANDA – In a landmark ceremony held at the Fountainhead Institute of Management and Technology campus in Awita Cell, Amuca Ward, 33 students graduated with specialized skills in solar manufacturing techniques after an intensive five-week training program.
The event, which celebrated the graduates’ mastery of renewable energy, was graced by Edwin Odur Luru, Head of Protocol at Tekwaro Lango, who represented the Paramount Chief of Lango, Dr. Engineer M. Oh Sea Michael Odongo Okune.
The graduating cohort, supported by funding from GIZ and WIMs, showcased their capstone project—a solar-powered incubator named Mingweno. The device, which runs entirely on solar energy, is capable of hatching up to 100 eggs in a standard 21-day cycle.
Speaking at the graduation, Fountainhead’s Principal, Tom Okao, emphasized the dual impact of the innovation.
"This technology is a game-changer for our local poor farmers," Okao said. "It not only reduces the cost of poultry production but also protects our environment by replacing kerosene and charcoal-based heating with clean solar energy."
Okao extended his gratitude to GIZ for their financial and technical backing, noting that the project aligns with Uganda’s push for sustainable energy solutions in agriculture.
On behalf of the Lango Paramount Chief, Edwin Odur Luru applauded the graduates for developing a solution that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
"This incubator proves that we don’t need expensive fuels to power our future," Odur stated. "I urge all rural schools and health centers across the region to adopt solar lighting and technology—it is affordable, reliable, and accessible."
Odur added that scaling such innovations could significantly reduce the operational costs of public institutions while improving service delivery in remote areas.
Graduate Ambrose Eleng, speaking on behalf of his classmates, expressed gratitude for the hands-on training.
"We are very happy with the skills we have acquired," Eleng shared. "This training has been life-changing. We promise to use these techniques wisely and pass on the knowledge to others in our communities."
The 33 graduates are now expected to embark on community outreach programs to train fellow youth and farmers on solar manufacturing and maintenance, ensuring the benefits of the Mingweno incubator and other solar technologies reach the grassroots.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and a pledge from the institute to continue its partnership with GIZ and WIMs for future cohorts.
