College of Science, Engineering & Technology

Unisa engineering team restores mobility and dignity

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The Unisa MES team with APD Centre residents

On 6 November 2025, the Mobility Engineering Solutions (MES) engaged scholarship project team from the College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET) visited the Association for Persons with Disabilities (APD) Centre in Bloemfontein to assist with repairs to defective electric wheelchairs.

Led by Prof Mothibeli Pita from the Department of Mechanical, Bioresources and Biomedical Engineering, the MES team conducted highly successful repairs and maintenance, restoring critical mobility components of electric wheelchairs for numerous residents at the APD Centre. Throughout the day, the team replaced worn and damaged components and performed crucial safety checks on fifteen electric wheelchairs. Each electric wheelchair was thoroughly tested and returned to its owner, ensuring no disruption to the users' daily lives and independence.

"Many of us take for granted the ability to move freely," says Pita. "For the residents of the APD Centre, a malfunctioning wheelchair isn't just an inconvenience but a barrier to their independence. Our engaged scholarship project goes beyond charity; it is about applying engineering excellence to deliver dignity and freedom to those in need."

The immediacy of seeing a device tested, repaired and handed back to the users was essential and fulfilling for both MES team members and the wheelchair owners.

By ensuring that the electric wheelchairs are safe and fully operational, Unisa’s MES team demonstrated that when academic expertise is directed towards community service, immediate, meaningful and impactful results are evident. This initiative exemplifies Unisa’s commitment to meaningful community engagement.     

* By Dr Nozipho N Madzivha, Communications and Marketing Specialist (acting), College of Science, Engineering and Technology

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Publish date: 2025/11/13

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