Koforidua: The River of Blessing Academy (ROBA), a leader in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education at the Basic School level, has successfully organized its sixth annual STEM fair in Koforidua. The event, themed 'Innovate, Design and Solve', featured student-led technological innovations and attracted participation from parents, educators, community leaders, and government officials.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ms. Juliet A. Obeng, Assistant Director of the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, delivered a speech on behalf of the Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey. She expressed the Minister's commitment to advancing STEM education through strategic investments in resources, infrastructure, and training across the region. The Minister is eager to collaborate with institutions like ROBA to prepare learners for the demands of the 21st century.
The fair highlighted the practical benefits of STEM education, which organizers noted fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and economic advancement by equipping students with essential skills for future careers. Ms. Obeng stated, "STEM is a powerful tool for societal change and our government recognizes the pivotal role of STEM in national development."
The Minister commended the school for its dedication to advancing STEM education, emphasizing that it forms the foundation for Ghana's future development. Mr. James Selorm Agbenyo, New Juaben South Municipal STEM Coordinator, Ghana Education Service, cited inventors like Thomas Edison, Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, and Dr. Thomas Mensah as examples of persistence leading to groundbreaking inventions.
In addressing the event, Mr. Agbenyo encouraged Ghanaian youth to pursue innovation with determination, highlighting the importance of exploration, creativity, and resilience. Dr. Abba Hughes-Lartey, Executive Director of River of Blessing Academy, reminded parents of the evolving career trends in STEM, particularly with the rise of AI systems replacing traditional jobs. She urged parents to encourage their wards to engage fully in the school's STEM co-curricular program to develop problem-solving skills.
This year's STEM fair provided a platform for students to showcase their skills, creativity, and knowledge. The exhibition featured various projects, including a 12-hour automatic lighting system, wireless phone charger using induction technology, hydroelectric power generation model, aquaponic mini-ecosystem, circulation system model, drone, DIY periscope, and other innovations. Students received certificates of participation to mark the occasion.
