Harare Polytechnic College has reinforced its reputation as a hub for innovation following the development of two ground-breaking technologies, namely, a Smart Railway and Traffic Automation System, and an energy-efficient electronic vehicle designed for short-distance travel.
Speaking to the Harare Post, at the on-going 66th Edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo this Tuesday, Harare Polytechnic student, Honest Ruzvidzo, who designed the Smart Railway and Traffic Automation System, said the system is poised to significantly improve railway efficiency while reducing the risk of accidents. He further noted that, “the system integrates intelligent monitoring and automated controls to enhance safety, streamline operations, and modernise rail transport infrastructure, an advancement that aligns with global trends in smart mobility solutions and Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030.”
In a separate but equally notable development, the institution has introduced an electronic vehicle that runs entirely on electricity, offering a sustainable alternative to fuel-powered transport. The compact vehicle is tailored for short-distance use in controlled environments such as airports, resort areas, healthcare facilities, and tourism centres.
Engineered for efficiency, the vehicle requires approximately 3 kilowatts of power to cover a distance of between 80 and 100 kilometres whilst operating at speeds ranging from 35 to 40 kilometres per hour. According to Ruzvidzo, the electric vehicle’s low energy consumption and environmentally friendly design positions it as a practical solution for institutions seeking to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs.
Innovations at Harare Polytechnic demonstrate the institution’s commitment to producing solutions that address real-world challenges while contributing to national development goals. By nurturing talent and promoting applied research, the polytechnic continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and technological transformation agenda. The twin innovations underscore the growing capacity of local institutions to deliver
