Revolutionizing the Future of E-Mobility: My Thrilling Industry Experience Journey with Solar Taxi Revealed!

In the dynamic landscape of sustainable transportation, SolarTaxi emerges as a beacon of innovation and positive change. With a mission deeply rooted in alleviating poverty, creating employment opportunities, and championing environmental protection, SolarTaxi Ghana has become a transformative force in the e-mobility sector.

SolarTaxi is not merely an assembler of electric vehicles; it is a catalyst for change. The company designs and locally assembles electric-powered vehicles, including bikes, tricycles, and cars. Beyond hardware, SolarTaxi trains locals in vehicle operation, offers affordable and eco-friendly transport services, and #empowers #women with skills in new technologies.

As I delve into the intricacies of this transformative company, the following sections will unfold the experiences and lessons gained during a 3-month internship at the heart of SolarTaxi 's operations.

From Classroom to the Industry: Bridging the Academic-Industry Gap

My journey to SolarTaxi was seamlessly woven from the fabric of the PartnerAfrika-Projekt KNUST Summer Internship Preparation Program. This unique initiative, crafted by Unternehmer Baden-Württemberg (UBW) , AGI [Association of Ghana Industries] , Arqum , KNUST Engineering Education Project, and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and industry realities, especially for SMEs.

Enrolled in #Cohort 2 of this comprehensive program, I anticipated a transformative experience that would transcend the theoretical confines of academia. My focus on the Energy Efficiency track, led by Mr. Thilo Baar , delved into energy conservation, sustainable practices, and economic viability in energy management. I aimed to seamlessly apply the theoretical concepts learned to real-world scenarios within the e-mobility landscape.

As a result, my journey from the PartnerAfrika-Projekt KNUST program to the SolarTaxi internship was a launchpad that propelled me into an industry setting where I could actively contribute to the principles of sustainability and energy efficiency.

A Day in the Life: Unraveling Challenges and Triumphs

During my internship at Solar Taxi, each day brought a diverse range of tasks and responsibilities that enriched my learning experience and contributed to the company's ongoing projects. I remember the very first week I was tasked by my supervisor, Mr Loving Asibey Koranteng to research Carbon Trade Marketing and initiated the Carbon Emission Calculation Model Project, laying the groundwork for understanding the critical indicators necessary for building the model. The Carbon Emission Calculation Model Project's complexity was challenging and exciting, requiring a deeper understanding of various indicators.

Expanding my knowledge, I explored a course in Sustainable Corporate Financing, delving into the Bond Market and Sustainability Considerations. I researched the carbon emission formulas for renewable and non-renewable sources, in addition to finding the average age of internal combustion engine vehicles. I am also excited to say I lent a helping hand in preparing SolarTaxi ’s operational report where we meticulously worked on the company's data to draw insights which served as a valuable tool for making well-informed decisions.

In my second month, my supervisor tasked us, that was I and my partner, Philip Asomani , with the task of researching, and this time around, we were going to write an actual research paper on the topic; "Electric Vehicles Adoption In Developing Economies." This month marked a shift in focus towards researching developed economies' strategies for electric vehicle adoption. This involved an exploration of policies, incentives, and challenges faced by countries such as the #United States, #Norway, and #Germany. We delved into the challenges impeding electric vehicle adoption in #Ghana, emphasizing issues related to infrastructure, affordability, and consumer awareness.

Moving forward, we adopted a combined research methodology for in-depth insights. Identifying suitable interview participants and scheduling proved challenging due to difficulties in obtaining accurate contact information.

A structured survey was crafted by Philip Asomani and me to collect quantitative data on challenges and opportunities for electric vehicles in developing nations. The survey garnered an overwhelming response, exceeding initial expectations.

We did a comprehensive exploration of the sources of electricity generation in Ghana. Data analysis tools like #Microsoft Excel and #Google Sheets were employed for forecasting Ghana's energy mix, revealing a heavy reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Collaborative efforts were focused on crafting each section of the research paper. The broader context of environmental challenges associated with transportation was addressed, incorporating feedback from our supervisor.

We delved into understanding #SDG Goals narrowing the exploration to Ghana's approach to achieving this goal. Attention shifted to Solar Taxi's role in contributing to SDGs through the assembly of electric vehicles in Ghana.

Beyond the Desk: Lessons in Teamwork and Lifelong Learning

Let me share some insights and key learnings from this internship;

The first thing is the realization that while individual efforts can yield results, the truth lies in collaborative teamwork. With a team, you get to know that there is more to learn, and you don't know it all because everyone brings on board different expertise, knowledge, and experiences. And this is what makes a team achieve more than an individual.

The workplace isn't only about technical skills. The attitude and impressions you bring to the table can help build or destroy your credibility. I am grateful to Mrs Sharon Baah for letting me see this perspective.

Learning doesn't stop; it's a lifelong journey. Even at work, people are always learning something new. There exists a substantial gap between academic knowledge and real-world industry practices. Theoretical concepts learned in classrooms may differ significantly from the practical challenges encountered in professional settings. So I will say every day should be an opportunity to learn and evolve.

Collaboration was a cornerstone of the internship experience. Working closely with Mr. Loving Asibey Koranteng , Philip Asomani , and team members provided diverse perspectives and accelerated problem-solving. Regular team meetings and brainstorming sessions allowed for open communication, ensuring everyone's voice was heard.

Skills Forged in the Fires of Innovation

The internship at SolarTaxi served as a rich learning ground, contributing to the enhancement of various skills. Notable improvements include:

Research and Analysis: Conducting in-depth research on electric vehicle adoption strategies and challenges strengthened analytical skills.

Project Management: Leading the survey development and data collection process honed project management capabilities.

Communication: Engaging in professional communication for interview participant outreach and consent letter drafting improved interpersonal skills.

Data Analysis: Utilizing tools like #Excel, and #Data Wrappers for energy mix analysis and forecasting provided hands-on experience in data analysis.

Mentorship played a pivotal role in the internship journey. Guidance from experienced professionals at SolarTaxi , particularly from my supervisor Mr. Loving Asibey Koranteng , provided valuable insights and direction. Mentorship extended beyond technical aspects, encompassing broader career advice and industry perspectives.

The ever-evolving nature of the industry highlighted the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Balancing technical proficiency with soft skills is crucial for success in a professional setting. Teamwork enhances problem-solving and contributes significantly to achieving impactful outcomes. Acknowledging the disparities between academic knowledge and industry practices is essential for effective career navigation.

The internship at Solar Taxi was more than a professional experience; it was a transformative journey that cultivated skills, expanded networks, and provided profound insights. The lessons learned and skills acquired during this period have set a solid foundation for future endeavors and reinforced a passion for sustainable and innovative solutions in the ever-evolving landscape of e-mobility.

Appreciation

I extend heartfelt gratitude to SolarTaxi for providing a platform to translate theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. Special thanks to the entire SolarTaxi team, the CEO Mr. George Kwadwo Appiah , my supervisor Mr Loving Asibey Koranteng , and colleagues for their guidance, mentorship, and collaborative spirit. The unwavering support and encouragement received throughout the internship have been invaluable in shaping this rewarding experience. Thank you PartnerAfrika-Projekt KNUST for making all these experiences possible for me.

Navigating Your Internship: Embrace, Evolve, Excel

Future interns, as you embark on your journey, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn. Embrace collaboration, cultivate a thirst for knowledge, and let curiosity guide your path. Wherever you find yourself, let each day be a chance to evolve, and may your internship become a transformative chapter in your professional story. Best of luck on your adventure!

#SolarTaxi #EMobility #SustainableTransport #InternshipExperience #RenewableEnergy #ElectricVehicles #GreenTech #CleanEnergy #Innovation #ClimateAction #InternshipJourney #FutureOfWork #SDGs #TransformativeExperience #Teamwork #TechForGood #CareerDevelopment #IndustryInsights #LearningJourney #EcoFriendly #TeamCollaboration #ProfessionalGrowth #InternshipStories #SmartMobility #InnovativeSolutions #CleanTransportation #CareerNavigation #GreenInnovation #FutureLeaders #SustainabilityInAction #KNUST #Tech