Electronics and Programming for Bioprocess Control in Biotechnology Engineering: Accessible Solutions for Industry 4.0

This article examines the importance of teaching electronics and process control within biotechnology engineering programmes, particularly in the context of Industry 4.0. With the increasing adoption of automation and the Internet of Things (IoT), it has become important to equip students with practical and applied skills. However, economic constraints and limited access to specialised software in many developing countries present significant challenges. This study illustrates how the use of affordable microcontrollers, such as the ESP32, together with open-source software, can provide an effective alternative that enables hands-on learning without compromising educational quality. In particular, the ESP32 incorporates Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows online control and monitoring, as well as data storage in external databases. Practical projects involving data acquisition, signal conditioning, and actuator control are intended to offer students experience with real-world applications. In addition, project-based assessment supported by detailed rubrics may enhance students’ understanding and performance, thereby preparing them more effectively for the demands of the contemporary workforce. Smart citations: https://scite.ai/reports/10.61467/2007.1558.2026.v17i1.1200 Dimensions.Open Alex.