SACOST-UEW and Asustem Robotics Partner to Drive STEM Education and Community Innovation

The primary objectives of the collaboration include developing and implementing joint STEM education initiatives, sourcing grants for funding STEM-related projects, and executing collaborative projects that integrate SACOST-UEW's STEM education expertise with Asustem Robotics Academy’s technological innovations.

The partnership will also focus on training and empowering volunteers to support STEM and technology-related initiatives in schools and communities. SACOST will provide expertise in STEM education and community science initiatives, while Asustem Robotics Academy will provide expertise in technology and innovation, particularly in robotics, AI, coding, and data analytics.

Prof. Enoch Sam, Head of SACOST-UEW, recounted the collaboration's origins, tracing it back to discussions in November. He noted that SACOST had been exploring ways to improve its visibility and bring on board external expertise to help actualise its objectives. He highlighted the partnership's importance, noting that it would enable SACOST to tap into the expertise and resources of Asustem Robotics Academy.

Prof. Sam announced plans to commence activities immediately, beginning with the inauguration of a committee. He indicated that the committee, which includes representatives from both organisations, would develop strategies for collaboration. He disclosed that discussions had already commenced prior to the formal agreement, with both parties actively identifying opportunities for joint proposals and collaborative projects. He commended the Asustem Robotics delegation for their remarkable punctuality, describing their time consciousness as a "wake-up call" for SACOST, emphasising the need for greater efficiency and discipline.

Prof. Daniel Yelpieri, Ag. Director of IERIS at UEW, highlighted the value of pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise to advance STEM education and community science initiatives. He stressed the need for collaboration in leveraging human and material resources, noting that no single entity possesses all the knowledge and expertise required for optimal success. He praised the partners for their commitment to STEM education and community development, citing the alignment of their objectives with those of IERIS.

Prof. Yelpieri expressed his optimism about the partnership's potential for success, citing Asustem Robotics Academy’s positive attitude and commitment to the shared objectives. "We want to encourage you to hit the ground running; we are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Let us work together to achieve our objectives and make a meaningful impact on our communities," he said.

Mr. David Boateng Asumadu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Asustem Robotics Academy, emphasised the importance of collaboration and early exposure to STEM education in driving innovation and development. He noted that his organisation's mission is to provide early exposure to STEM education to children as young as five years old. " We have five-year-old kids who can develop robots, design robots, code, write their own applications, and share them online," he explained.

Mr. Asumadu highlighted his organisation’s emphasis on vulnerable communities, where they deliver transformative STEM education. “We go to the communities, support, impact, and track progress. This partnership with the University of Education, Winneba, will enhance both students' and teachers’ capacities,” Mr. Asumadu assured.  

The signing of the MoU between SACOST and Asustem Robotics Academy marks an important milestone in the advancement of STEM education in Ghana, particularly in robotics, AI, and coding. The partnership is expected to drive innovation and development in STEM education, providing opportunities for students and teachers to benefit from Asustem Robotics Academy's expertise and resources.