UNIZIK Moves to Accelerate Electric Mobility, Smart Campus Vision Through Strategic Partnership with Haitech Technologies
The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, has reaffirmed the University’s commitment to sustainable transportation, digital transformation and technological innovation as the institution explores a strategic partnership with Haitech Technologies, Enugu, on electric mobility and ICT development.
Speaking while receiving a delegation from Haitech Technologies on a courtesy visit to his office, Professor Anyaehie described UNIZIK as a progressive institution with immense opportunities for investment, research and innovation. He noted that the University’s large student population, workforce and vibrant academic community provide an ideal environment for deploying technology-driven solutions.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the University has set its sights on gradually replacing petrol-powered transportation within the campus with electric mobility solutions. He revealed that the institution has already taken a significant step in that direction through its Safe Ride digital platform, which enables staff and students to request electric tricycles for convenient transportation across the campus.
According to him, the initiative is part of the University’s broader vision of building a clean, smart and digitally connected campus that leverages innovation to improve service delivery and environmental sustainability.
Professor Anyaehie further revealed plans to deploy electric vehicles for campus ambulance services, describing the initiative as one of several areas where collaboration with Haitech Technologies could deliver mutual benefits. He expressed optimism that the partnership could eventually expand beyond the University to support Anambra State’s growing electric mobility ecosystem.
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted the possibility of introducing electric buses for inter-city transportation, particularly along the Onitsha–Nnewi corridor, noting that such projects align with the University’s mission of driving technological advancement and contributing practical solutions to societal challenges.
In addition, Professor Anyaehie unveiled plans to establish an electric vehicle assembly plant within the University using available resources, with a long-term vision of expanding the facility into a centre for innovation and manufacturing. He also proposed the introduction of short-term professional training programmes that would equip participants with practical skills in the maintenance, repair and management of electric vehicles.
Emphasising the University’s innovation-driven agenda, the Vice-Chancellor stated that UNIZIK is eager to partner with organisations that share its vision of transforming society through technology.
“These are the kinds of innovations we want to achieve. The University should remain at the forefront of societal transformation by creating an environment where cutting-edge technologies and essential services can be developed, tested and accessed,” he said.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Haitech Technologies, Mr. Uche Chime, commended Professor Anyaehie for his visionary leadership and bold commitment to innovation, describing his ideas as reflective of a forward-looking university administrator.
He stated that the proposed collaboration aligns perfectly with Haitech Technologies’ mission and expressed confidence that a partnership with Nnamdi Azikiwe University would yield significant benefits for both institutions.
Mr. Chime explained that Haitech Group is a leading company in medical appliances and emerging technologies, adding that the company is keen on establishing a strong operational presence within the University as a strategic gateway to expanding its services across Anambra State and beyond.
He outlined several areas of potential collaboration, including the provision of laptops and tablets to students through flexible instalment payment schemes, as well as the establishment of an ICT service and digital training centre within the University.
“We are excited about the opportunities before us. We want to make Nnamdi Azikiwe University our second home and build a partnership that will deliver lasting value to both the University and the wider society,” Mr. Chime stated.
Members of the Haitech Technologies delegation included Mr. Andrew Huang, Business Manager; Mr. Chu Hang, Project Manager; Mrs. Amaka Okeke; Professor A. C. Azubogu; Professor Ikechukwu Ekene Onyenwe, Special Adviser to the Vice-Chancellor on Digital Innovation and ICT (SAVC, DICT); and Professor Ugochukwu Okonkwo, Dean, Faculty of Engineering.