AIRTAD: Ghanaian students can lead global tech stage – Dr. Apaak

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Abas Apaak says Ghanaian students have the potential to compete and excel on the global technology stage.

Dr. Apaak made the remarks in a keynote address delivered on behalf of Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu at the Impact Roundtable Discussion and Robotics Competition (AIRTAD) at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana.

Highlighting Ghana’s growing reputation in robotics and coding, he pointed to the achievements of Prempeh College, Methodist Girls’ High School, and Opoku Ware School in international competitions.

“Encouragingly, Ghana is already making its mark globally,” Dr. Apaak stated. “Several Ghanaian schools have achieved international recognition in robotics.”

He noted that the institutions have won prestigious awards at the World Robot Olympiad and the World Robotics and Coding Competition, describing their accomplishments as proof of the country’s rising talent in science and technology.

“Their achievements are a powerful reminder that with the right support, Ghanaian students can compete and excel on the world stage,” he said.

Dr. Apaak stressed that Ghana’s education reforms are designed to position learners for global competitiveness. He explained that the government’s agenda places strong emphasis on STEAM education, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, as a practical approach to learning.

“When we get STEAM education right, we produce graduates who can design solutions for agriculture, health, sanitation, energy, transportation, fintech, manufacturing, and the creative economy,” he noted.

He added that the Ministry intends to introduce a SmartStart Curriculum to deepen the integration of coding, digital literacy and technical and vocational education into basic schooling.

Addressing students at AIRTAD, Dr. Apaak encouraged them to remain confident and innovative.

“Whether you are presenting a prototype, a research idea, a creative design, or a community solution, you are demonstrating the very skills tomorrow’s workforce will demand,” he said.

He maintained that with sustained reforms and partnerships, Ghanaian learners will not only participate in global technology competitions but lead them.