As part of efforts to curtail the novel Corona Virus Pandemic, the Faculty of Engineering, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, has unveiled an eco-friendly soap and water dispenser designed and made according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) standard. The dispenser, a mechanical contraption, dispenses soap and water alternatively at the push of a pedal.
Liquid soap is dispensed from a canister and the machine dispenses water approximately twenty seconds later to give users enough time to rub soap all over their hands. It dispenses enough water to rinse off the soap and leave the hands squeaky clean. It is modified to use not too much water, making it environmentally friendly.
While unveiling the soap and water dispenser at the Academic Building, a member of the team that facilitated the project, Engineer Julius Asaolu described the dispenser as a unique design that is useful in the fight against COVID-19, at the press of a pedal. He further explained that it would help to conserve the eco-system through minimal use of water.
The Acting Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Stephen Temitope described the dispenser as one-of-a-kind with its one-pedal designed. He, however, solicited the support of the University Management to secure the patenting rights to the dispenser so as to avoid unauthorized duplication of the design.
The Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Professor Iyiola Oluwaleye expressed his gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for encouraging intellectual growth and research. He commended the team that worked on the project for their tenacity despite the shortage of technical staff to operate available machinery. He, therefore, recommended the dispenser for schools, churches, mosques, malls and office buildings.
In his reactions, the Vice Chancellor, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Professor Edward Olanipekun commended the Faculty of Engineering for the initiative. He reiterated Management’s commitment to prioritize Engineering and Information and Communication Technology activities with a view to harnessing the intellectual resources available in Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.
Bode Olofinmuagun
Head, Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs