I am 4th-year Software Engineering student at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, specializing in React and Next.js with strong skills in TypeScript, JavaScript, and Tailwind CSS. Passionate about using technology to address inefficiencies, I am building a digital lending platform to support Ethiopian SMEs with financial education and accessible resources. As a Semi-Finalist in the A2SV 2024 Hackathon, my project, GreeNet, showcased innovation in supporting Ethiopian farmers with real-time market data. Through diverse projects from student management systems to blog platforms. I am demonstrates a commitment to impactful, user-centered design and efficient digital solutions.
Weekly Report
We had a meeting with our advisor, where we introduced ourselves and shared our skills and interests. After an orientation on IETP, we set up a Telegram group for communication. We talked about our team's strengths and assigned each member the task of brainstorming project ideas for the next meeting.
Brainstorming Sessions
We brainstormed six project ideas in our Telegram group and conducted an anonymous poll to vote on them.
Research and Shortlisting
We narrowed the ideas down to three:
Medication Dispensing IoT System
Tomato Powder Production and Drying Machine
Smart Adaptive Parking System
Each team member researched these concepts, focusing on identifying the problems to address, key components, and project objectives.
Advisor Meeting
In Week 2, we presented the three ideas to our advisor. He guided us in selecting the tomato powder production project due to its inclusivity across all departments and its alignment with the SDGs.
Our group began developing the project proposal, organizing tasks and assigning specific responsibilities. I was tasked with outlining the significance of the project and identifying its beneficiaries. For the tomato powder production project, I focused on highlighting its importance in addressing food preservation and nutrition challenges, particularly in areas with limited access to fresh produce. The project aims to provide a sustainable solution for preserving tomatoes, reducing food waste, and creating economic opportunities. Beneficiaries include farmers, local businesses, and consumers, especially those in regions where tomatoes are a key staple but are often wasted due to lack of preservation options. This effort could also contribute to food security and support the livelihoods of small-scale producers.
We received feedback on our proposal from our advisor, which we reviewed collectively as a team. Each member made revisions to their sections to incorporate the comments, enhancing clarity and coherence. Our group leader then compiled the updated sections into a final draft, which was carefully reviewed and submitted as our completed proposal.
We kick off the project, and my responsibility is to develop the website for the tomato powder e-commerce platform. I begin the website development by planning the site’s structure and layout, ensuring a user-friendly interface and smooth navigation. My focus is on creating a visually appealing and functional platform that allows customers to easily browse, purchase, and learn about our tomato powder products. This includes setting up product pages, integrating payment systems, and optimizing the site for a seamless shopping experience.
We had discussions and chose the materials for the project. The electrical and mechanical team members conducted a cost analysis, which was then presented to the advisor by our representative. After receiving approval, the funds were transferred, enabling us to purchase the materials and proceed with the project smoothly.
We began building our prototype while continuing to procure materials. However, challenges with cutting sheet metal and RHS led to delays and required assistance from senior students. Despite these setbacks, we made progress and successfully completed the preparation of dried tomatoes in the lab.
We began building our prototype while continuing to procure materials. However, challenges with cutting sheet metal and RHS led to delays and required assistance from senior students. Despite these setbacks, we made progress and successfully completed the preparation of dried tomatoes in the lab.
This week, we reached a significant milestone by completing our prototype, with only minor details left to be finalized. Additionally, we finished developing the website for the tomato powder e-commerce platform. The website is now fully functional, featuring a user-friendly interface, product pages. We also ensured that the site is optimized for smooth navigation, providing customers with a seamless shopping experience. With both the prototype and website completed.