The Ghana Robotics Competition (GRC) 2024, organized by Firefly IO, concluded with a resounding success, underscoring the growing importance of STEAM education in fostering sustainable development across Ghana.
Held at the GCB Hall, University of Ghana, from August 30th to 31st, the event brought together young innovators to tackle some of Africa’s most pressing challenges through robotics and technology.
This year’s competition, themed “Sustainable Impact,” tasked students with designing innovative solutions focused on Climate Change Adaptation, Zero Hunger, and Water and Sanitation. The event attracted 80 teams, divided into three leagues—Engineers League, Stars League, and Tech League—each vying for top honors while showcasing their technical prowess and problem-solving abilities.
Firefly IO, the organization behind the event, has a clear mission: to empower young individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to transform their communities and the world. The GRC 2024 served as a pivotal platform for nurturing homegrown talent, opening doors to revolutionary careers in technology.
“The competition is more than just robots; it’s about building a generation of innovators and changemakers who will shape the future of Ghana and beyond,” said Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, the Chairperson of the event.
The Stars League, one of the most anticipated segments of the competition, featured two types of robots: one controlled remotely and another operating autonomously. Teams were challenged to navigate through designated game areas, addressing specific objectives that mirrored real-world sustainability challenges.
The competition emphasized strategic thinking and automation, particularly in the Stars League, where participants had to demonstrate not only technical skill but also creativity and innovation.
Cyber Squad, a standout team in the Stars League, emerged as the 2024 champions. They were the only team to successfully complete the autonomous challenge, and they collected the highest number of clean water balls during the second game area’s task, which simulated water conservation, atmospheric water harvesting, and water recycling.
Dr. Pius Kwao Gadosey, speaking on behalf of the victorious team, expressed immense pride in their accomplishment. “This incredible achievement is a testament to the students’ dedication and commitment, the expertise of our facilitators, and the unwavering support of their parents,” he said.
He also extended the team’s gratitude to Mr. Kofi Nti, Founder of STEMR Tech Labs NGO, and the facilitators from Stembotiks EduTech Limited, Desmond Nunoo and Joshua Nunoo, for their instrumental roles in the team’s success.
The event’s impact extended beyond the competition itself. It attracted significant attention from industry partners, including Abacus Robotics and the School of Engineering at the University of Ghana. These partnerships highlight the broader significance of the GRC in advancing technology education in Ghana and aligning it with global trends in sustainability.
The competition’s dual focus on hands-on learning and real-world applications of technology is crucial in preparing the next generation for the challenges of the future. By providing students with the opportunity to engage in projects that address pressing global issues, Firefly IO is not only equipping them with technical skills but also instilling a sense of responsibility towards sustainable development.
“The Ghana Robotics Competition is a testament to our commitment to revolutionizing education and promoting sustainable development,” stated a representative from Firefly IO. “By nurturing a generation of problem-solvers, we are ensuring that Ghana continues to produce world-class innovators who can drive positive change.”
As the event concluded, it became clear that the Ghana Robotics Competition 2024 was not just about winning but about inspiring young minds to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The competition has set a high standard for future events, emphasizing the importance of STEAM education in building a sustainable and innovative future for Ghana.
For schools and educators interested in enhancing their students’ understanding of coding, robotics, and 3D printing, get in touch with Stembotiks EduTech Limited whose hub and facilitators were used to train and prepare the champions.
