A team of engineering students from the Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Sfax (ISET Sfax) has earned national recognition for developing an innovative, environmentally friendly vehicle designed specifically for individuals with special needs. The project secured a prestigious award at the “Univar Expo,” an annual exhibition celebrating top graduation projects from Tunisian universities.
Innovation for Inclusion and Sustainability
The vehicle, developed as a final-year graduation project, represents a significant step forward in both assistive technology and sustainable transport in the region. Its design thoughtfully addresses the challenges faced by wheelchair users, featuring a rear entry point that allows for direct and unassisted access into the car.
Beyond its accessibility features, the car is powered by solar energy, aligning with the growing regional focus on cleantech and renewable resources. The vehicle’s controls are equally innovative, offering users the flexibility to operate it either through a dedicated smartphone application or via voice commands, further enhancing its ease of use for people with varying mobility levels.
The Winning Team and Academic Support
The successful project was the result of a collaborative effort by a talented team of mechanical engineering students, including Khalil Hamdi, Ahmed Fendri, and Mohamed Jmal. Their work was guided and supervised by university professors Lassaad Dammak and Mohamed Gargouri, who provided the academic framework and technical support necessary to bring the concept to life.
Recognition at Univar Expo
The team’s achievement was officially recognized during an awards ceremony held at the Sfax headquarters of the Tunisian Confederation of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts (UTICA). The “Univar Expo” award highlights the project’s excellence in innovation and its potential real-world impact. The expo serves as a critical platform connecting academic ingenuity with industry, showcasing the most promising projects emerging from Tunisia’s higher education institutions.
About ISET Sfax
The Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Sfax (ISET Sfax) is a key public institution within Tunisia’s network of technological studies institutes. It focuses on providing practical, hands-on education in various technical and engineering fields, preparing students to contribute directly to the country’s industrial and technological development.
Looking Ahead
This award-winning project is a testament to the rising tide of youth-led innovation in Tunisia’s tech ecosystem. By tackling challenges in both social inclusion and environmental sustainability, the ISET Sfax team has created a prototype with significant commercial and social potential. Their success underscores the vital role of university-led R&D in the MENA region and points towards a promising future for homegrown solutions in the cleantech and assistive technology sectors.
Source: Successful Tunisia
