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Start: March 28, 2026 9:00 AM
End: March 29, 2026 5:00 PM
Location: ENSPT and the University of Buea
Fostering hands-on engineering, sustainable technology, and distributed intelligence at ENSPT and the University of Buea.
We are thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of our intensive IoT and Edge Computing workshop, organized by Dessap Fomekong Loic Joffree in collaboration with Plastibytes. Hosted at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Postes et Télécommunications (ENSPT) and the College of Technology at the University of Buea, this program immersed university students in the practical realities of modern engineering, artificial intelligence, and physical computing.
Throughout the training, participants experienced a rapid learning curve, moving from foundational concepts to advanced, industry-standard applications. Here is a look at what we covered and the technologies that made it possible.
The journey began with hands-on project building using Arduino kits provided by TME Education. The Arduino platform served as the perfect gateway into physical computing, offering an accessible yet powerful environment. Its modular nature allowed students to build their technical confidence incrementally, teaching core concepts that easily transfer to professional, real-world applications.
To elevate the students' capabilities, we introduced cutting-edge equipment from Seeed Studio, bridging the gap between basic exploration and advanced industry standards.
Resource Optimization: Using the incredibly compact XIAO ESP32S3 and the Grove - Vision AI module V2, students learned how powerful computing and advanced image recognition can exist in small form factors.
Long-Range Communication: We explored LoRa technology devices, introducing participants to long-range, low-power communication networks. This is a critical component for modern IoT deployments, particularly in rural or developing areas throughout Cameroon and beyond, where traditional network infrastructure may be limited.
A core focus of the workshop was teaching the future of distributed intelligence. Instead of relying entirely on cloud connectivity, students learned to implement edge computing solutions. By training AI models directly on the Edge Impulse platform, participants successfully ran machine learning models, such as image recognition and classification, locally on their microcontrollers.
Through our collaboration with the Plastibytes initiative, we demonstrated that modern engineering must go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. We connected technical skills with sustainability, showing students how to directly address environmental challenges and build solutions rooted in the circular economy.
To reinforce systems thinking, we utilized the XRP robot platform. This provided an engaging, hands-on way for students to integrate multiple technologies, demonstrating exactly how sensors, processing units, and actuation work in tandem.
To cap off the intensive program, we hosted a mini-hackathon. Trainees were challenged to demonstrate their newly acquired skills by building integrated projects utilizing the Seeed Studio equipment, LoRa technologies, and XRP robots. The creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical proficiency on display were truly remarkable.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all the enthusiastic participants who made this event a success. Special thanks to our educational institution partners, including Dr. Christian Tchapga, and our incredible technology providers; Seeed Studio and TME Education for empowering these students with the tools they need to shape the future.
Stay tuned to hwivc.org for more updates on our upcoming programs and initiatives!