How Robotics Competitions Are Shaping Ghana’s Transformation
In a world that is rapidly evolving, the skills that young people need to succeed are changing just as quickly. Today, it’s not enough to excel only in traditional academic subjects; students must also develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, creativity, and collaboration skills—key components of 21st-century education. One area where these skills are being nurtured and celebrated is robotics, a field that is rapidly gaining traction in Ghana.
Recently, I had the privilege of attending the Ghana Robotics Competition organized by Firefly IO, an event that showcased the remarkable talents of young Ghanaians in the field of engineering and robotics. It was an eye-opening experience, not just because of the impressive displays of innovation and technical skill, but also because it underscored the importance of extracurricular activities in shaping the future of our youth.
During the event, I had an insightful conversation with Professor Elsie Effah Kaufman, a leading figure in engineering and education in Ghana. Her perspective on the future of digitalization in Ghana through the lens of robotics was both enlightening and inspiring.
Robotics: A Gateway to 21st-Century Skills
Professor Elsie Effah Kaufman emphasized that robotics competitions are more than just a fun activity—they are a vital educational tool that equips young people with the skills they need to thrive in the modern world. She highlighted how these competitions challenge students to solve complex problems creatively and collaboratively.
“By participating in such extracurricular activities, they gain those 21st-century skills which will be required to solve the complex problems of tomorrow,” she explained. This statement resonates deeply when you consider the challenges that lie ahead for Ghana as it continues to embrace digital transformation.
The competition required students to work with locally made robots, pushing them to modify and design solutions to specific challenges. This not only honed their technical skills but also fostered a spirit of innovation and teamwork. These are the very skills that are essential for success in today’s global economy.
Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Extracurricular Activities
One of the most striking points Professor Kaufman made during our conversation was the importance of learning beyond the classroom. While academic education provides a strong foundation, she argued that it’s the combination of what happens in school, at home, and through extracurricular activities that fully prepare a young person for the future.
“Education does not only take place in the classroom. If we rely only on what is happening in the classroom, we will never get our young people to acquire the necessary skills to be really relevant in society,” she asserted.
MUST READ: Breaking the Cycle of Limitation: The Future First Lady
This insight is particularly relevant as Ghana’s educational curriculum continues to evolve. The National Accreditation Authority (NACA) has been working diligently to update the curriculum to meet the demands of the 21st century. However, as Professor Elsie pointed out, there is a growing recognition that real education happens through a broader array of experiences—like those provided by robotics competitions.
Inclusion and Opportunity: A Key Takeaway
One of the highlights of the event was learning about the diverse teams participating in the competition. Professor Kaufman shared an inspiring story about a team that included members of the deaf community who, due to religious reasons, could not compete directly but were still integral to the team’s success. This story exemplifies the inclusive nature of robotics competitions, where every member’s contribution is valued, and where teamwork truly makes the dream work.
WATCH: Deaf Group Wins Robotics Competition
It was also fascinating to see how these young participants, despite their varying levels of preparation, were able to compete and showcase their skills. This speaks to the importance of practice and perseverance, as well as the opportunities that robotics provides for students to engage with technology in a hands-on way.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The Ghana Robotics Competition was more than just an event—it was a glimpse into the future of our country. It highlighted the incredible potential of our youth when given the right tools and opportunities. But more importantly, it underscored the need for a holistic approach to education that includes both academic and extracurricular experiences.
As we continue to push for a more digital and technologically advanced Ghana, it’s crucial that we support initiatives like these that not only inspire our young people but also equip them with the skills they need to lead in the 21st century.
I invite you to watch the full interview with Professor Kaufman, where we delve deeper into these topics and explore what the future holds for Ghana’s youth in the world of robotics and beyond. Click here to watch the video and be inspired by the incredible work being done to shape the future of our nation.
