Founder and CEO of FireFly IO, George Sarfo, has emphasised the imminent rise of robotics and the need to intensify training for the younger generation in this field.
Speaking on Friday, August 30, 2024, during this year’s Ghana Robotics Competition (GRC) held at the University of Ghana’s GCB Hall, Sarfo highlighted the importance of equipping Ghanaian students with the skills to thrive in a future dominated by robotics.
He noted that with proper training, today’s students can successfully adapt to a future where robotics play a central role.
Sarfo stressed the mission of Ghana Robotics, which is to promote robotics education in the country by developing and utilising locally produced robotic kits, adding that by teaching students how to design and build their own robots, they gain practical experience that prepares them for competition and innovation.
“Ghana Robotics’ aim is to promote robotics education in Ghana by providing and using their own robotic kits, so in that case we teach the students how to develop and build their own robots and use them to compete in the competition.
Sarfo also pointed out the limitations of foreign robotics kits, which often restrict students due to their pre-configured designs. He advocated for the use of locally created kits that allow students to build robots from scratch, thereby enhancing their learning experience and creativity.
He added that “robots are becoming integral to all sectors of the economy,” Sarfo stated, citing examples such as robot lawyers, robot chefs, and robots used for various tasks.
He stressed that the future is rooted in robotics, and it is crucial to instill an interest in robotics among the younger generation.
According to him, while Ghana is making progress in robotics education, there is still room for improvement. He therefore called for increased support to provide more advanced robotic tools to Ghanaian students interested in the field.
“I believe one of the main challenges is access to materials, which is why FireFly IO exists—to provide affordable, locally made kits,” Sarfo said.
He also expressed gratitude to their sponsors, including Flora Tissue Paper, GCB Bank Plc, Silver Star Auto Limited, Top Choco, Syntax, and Tank Agro, for their continued support, which has been instrumental in the competition’s success.
This year’s event saw participation from 47 schools, with a total of 60 teams ranging from middle school to tertiary institutions.
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