By: Dr. Ann Move Oguti and Mr. Benjamin Joshua Sssentongo
From broken laptops to faulty TVs, Soroti University students brought gadgets back to life at the second edition of the “Gadget Revival” event, proving that engineering at Soroti University is as much about practical problem-solving as theory. Organized by the Soroti University Engineering Society (SUES) on Friday, September 19, 2025, the event transformed Lecture Room 01 into a buzzing repair hub. Students showcased their technical skills by performing hardware and software repairs on laptops, televisions, extension cables, percolators, flat irons, and even electric shavers, all for a modest service fee of 2,000 shs only.
A Day of Repair and Revelation
Under the leadership of Mr. Abel Ekode (President) and Mr. Jonah Madaba (Projects Manager), together with the wider SUES leadership team, and with support from Ag. Patron Dr. Ann Move Oguti alongside technicians Mr. William Engwendu and Mr. Emmanuel Odongo, the student-led team worked with determination and creativity.
Among the gadgets revived were a professor’s TV and percolator, an experience that left faculty both impressed and grateful. “The students repaired my TV and percolator!” exclaimed Professor Florence Tushabe, highlighting the practical impact of the initiative.
In total, 21 gadgets were repaired by a team of 34 students. While the day was a huge success, it also revealed a pressing need for more tools and resources. Some repairs, like a smartphone screen replacement, could not be completed due to a lack of specialized equipment.
The Skilling Session: Building a Foundation
The triumph of the “Gadget Revival” was made possible by a skilling session earlier in the week. On Tuesday, senior technicians and trainers including Mr. Benard Ejoku, Mr. Aggrey Ogongolo, and Mr. Hussein Gwadya provided hands-on training to the student technicians.
The workshop strengthened their ability to diagnose and fix a wide range of problems, from hardware malfunctions to software glitches. For many students, it was not only an opportunity to sharpen their technical skills but also to learn from experienced mentors.
Looking Ahead: Beyond Repairs
Encouraged by the success of this first event, SUES plans to host the “Gadget Revival” twice each semester, making it a regular feature on the university calendar. The long-term vision includes:
- Hosting more technical workshops and repair clinics.
- Collaborating with local industries for equipment and resource support.
- Inspiring a culture of sustainability, innovation, and practical engineering.
- Acquiring specialized tools to tackle more complex repairs.
This initiative is more than just a repair service. It is a living showcase of Soroti University’s hands-on approach to engineering education, where students move beyond theory to deliver real-world solutions. The event also strengthens ties between the university and the community, positioning Soroti University as a hub of innovation and impact.
Gratitude and Recognition
We extend our sincere thanks to the University Administration and the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) for their support and provision of resources. With a growing reputation for nurturing industry-ready talent, Soroti University is poised to lead the way in engineering education and community engagement in Uganda and beyond.
About the Soroti University Engineering Society (SUES)
The Soroti University Engineering Society (SUES) is a vibrant student-led organization that brings together aspiring engineers to apply classroom knowledge in practical, innovative ways. SUES organizes workshops, technical projects, outreach programs, and community-based initiatives that showcase engineering solutions to real-world problems. By fostering teamwork, creativity, and professional development, SUES plays a central role in preparing Soroti University students to become industry-ready engineers and leaders in Uganda’s development.