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Joshua Ben, a Mechanical Technician at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supported University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) in Blantyre, is a testament to the power of passion, skill, and collaboration in driving technological advancement.
With a background in Mechanical Engineering and a deep-rooted love for design, Joshua has carved out a unique role at UniPod, where he plays a pivotal part in fostering innovation and supporting young talents.
A Role Defined by Precision and Creativity
As a Mechanical Technician, Joshua’s responsibilities are multifaceted. He oversees the operation and maintenance of advanced machinery, ensuring that each piece of equipment functions to the highest standards. His role also extends to providing design support to clients, stepping in for supervisors when necessary, and ensuring the smooth technical operation of the UniPod facility.
“I look at the operation of machinery, ensuring everything functions according to standards. Maintenance is also key because machines wear out over time. I’m there to ensure that if anything fails, I can step in and fix it,” Joshua explains.
From Architecture to Mechanical Engineering: A Passion for Design
Though Joshua initially aspired to study architecture, he found his calling in Mechanical Engineering, drawn by its emphasis on design, a core aspect he admired in architecture.
“My passion fell on the architecture side of things, but Mechanical Engineering encompassed the essence of design, which I loved. That’s what drove me,” he reflects.
Now in his second year at UniPod, Joshua acknowledges the challenges of working with advanced machinery and technology but emphasizes the immense learning opportunities it has provided.
“It’s been a long journey, but we are trying. There’s so much to learn, and it’s been enriching,” he says.
UniPod: A Hub of Innovation and Collaboration
The UniPod project started in 2022 to establish an innovation facility with state-of-the-art machines and equipment to support fabrication, prototyping, and small-scale manufacturing.
On 6 March 2024, UniPod was officially commissioned to start its programs to support ideation and product development among youth interested in innovation and entrepreneurship. Today, UniPod supports faculty and student programs, offers enterprise services to the private sector, and facilitates research and development in product formulation.
Joshua takes pride in being part of a small but highly effective team of technicians who manage various projects. “It’s amazing how young talents like me collaborate to achieve common goals. We have managed to run huge projects with the support of our supervisors,” he shares.
"Innovation is key. Everybody is born to create something regardless of where they’re coming from, their age, or their resources."
Memorable Projects and Impactful Moments
One of Joshua’s most rewarding projects involved creating miniature architectural models for the Malawi Housing Corporation.
“They wanted miniatures for their office complex in Lilongwe and a residential building. It was satisfying to translate the architectural drawings into 3D-printed models. It surprised them, but I thought, ‘Woah, this has always been my passion,’” he recalls.
Joshua’s experience extends beyond UniPod. Supported by UNDP, he recently participated in a creative boot camp in Rwanda, where he learned new design software and applied his skills to fix a calibration issue on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router back at UniPod.
“The boot camp was an eye-opener. I learned new design software that I once found intimidating. When I returned, I applied this knowledge to fix a calibration issue on a CNC router. As we speak right now, it’s functioning properly. That was a proud moment because I could immediately put my skills to practical use,” he says.
A Vision for Malawi’s Technological Future
Joshua is a strong advocate for innovation and collaboration. He believes that everyone has the potential to create, regardless of their background or resources.
“Innovation is key. Everybody is born to create something regardless of where they’re coming from, their age, or their resources. They are meant to create something,” he emphasizes.
He sees immense potential in Malawi’s growing technological landscape and encourages young innovators to collaborate within hubs like UniPod.
“Progress in technology and innovation is key to driving the country forward,” he asserts.
A Call to Young Innovators
Joshua envisions a future where innovation becomes central to Malawi’s development. He urges young people to embrace technology and create solutions tailored to local challenges. “I hope to see more young minds embracing technology and developing solutions that make sense in our context. That’s how we will move forward,” he says.
Through UniPod and similar initiatives, Joshua hopes to inspire a new generation of innovators who will harness technology to drive sustainable progress in Malawi.