The future of innovation in Ghana shone brightly as young learners from various educational levels showcased groundbreaking projects at the Ghana Robotics Competition (GRC) 2025.
Held under the theme “Youth, Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability”, the competition challenged participants to design robots to solve pressing national issues such as illegal mining (galamsey), deforestation, and environmental sustainability.
The event successfully highlighted Ghana’s growing interest in robotics and STEM education, encouraging creativity and problem-solving among young minds and inspiring the next generation to use technology for sustainable development.
Embracing Technology as a Gateway to Innovation
In his keynote address, Mr Dzifi Gunu, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Digital Center, urged Ghanaians to embrace technology rather than fear it. Reflecting on early misconceptions about AI, he remarked, “When artificial intelligence first emerged, many resisted it, calling it demonic or a threat to humanity. But education turns mystery into mastery.”
Mr Gunu emphasized that technology is not an enemy but a gateway to innovation. “We shouldn’t run away from technology. We should embrace it, explore it, and innovate with it to solve our local problems,” he added.
Cultivating Curiosity and Africa-Centric Solutions
Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, quiz mistress and host of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), encouraged students to cultivate curiosity and learn from others as a means of conquering the world through knowledge.
“Competitions like this build problem-solving skills and prepare young people to anticipate the future,” she noted.
A subsequent panel discussion explored the practical and ethical implications of artificial intelligence, focusing on how AI could be used to create sustainable, Africa-centred solutions.
Mr. Abdulai Imoro, Executive Director of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), stressed the importance of context-driven innovation.
“As Africans, it’s not enough to provide solutions; we must build Africa-centric solutions that solve African problems using technology, innovation, and artificial intelligence,” he said.
Valerie Labi, co-founder at Wahu Mobility, further emphasized the need for young people to use AI wisely and creatively.
According to her, “technology should be a tool for solving problems, not replacing human values.”
Additionally, Charles Fiifi Hagan, an IT compliance and risk analyst, spoke on the importance of adapting to rapid technological change, urging institutions to prepare students for the digital future.
“Innovation should not scare us,” he noted.
All panellists agreed that AI represents an opportunity for learning, discovery, and creativity, not a replacement for human intelligence.
Competition Winners
The event, which featured multiple leagues, saw impressive performances across the board:
Techs League: The Overcomers from Kramokrom D/A Basic School joined forces with The Buffaloes of Kona D/A Primary School to clinch the championship title under this division.
Stars League: The title went to Cyber Forge from Amaniampong SHS and The Achievers from Leklebi SHS.
Engineers League: Ashesi University’s Assemble Team soared to victory with an impressive display of innovation, precision, and technical mastery that captivated both judges and spectators.
The competition ended with a renewed call for sustained investment in STEM education, digital literacy, and youth innovation, as Ghana seeks to nurture the next generation of tech leaders.
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