As part of the 2025 Ghana Science and Tech Explorer Prize (GSTEP) Challenge, finalist teams from Greater Accra, Eastern, and Ashanti regions took part in an immersive industry visit experience in early May. These visits were designed to deepen participants’ understanding of real-world STEM applications and inspire them to refine their innovations ahead of the final Pitching and Judging events.
Over three days, 50 finalist teams were exposed to practical demonstrations of how science and technology drive Ghana’s development—from waste recycling and clean energy to medical technology and product engineering. The industry visits were not only educational but also aspirational, highlighting the transformative power of hands-on learning and community support in STEM education.
Eastern Region: Waste to Innovation
In the Eastern Region, 15 finalist teams visited the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant, where they explored how household and commercial waste is processed into useful byproducts such as compost, plastic pellets, and renewable fuel.
From walking across the weighing bridge to observing pyrolysis machines and sorting slots in action, students gained firsthand insight into industrial-scale waste management. For teams working on environmental and sustainability-focused prototypes, the visit was especially enlightening—demonstrating how engineering, chemistry, and biology can combine to solve critical ecological problems. The energy and curiosity displayed by the young learners reinforced GSTEP’s mission to nurture STEM-powered changemakers who are ready to build a cleaner, greener future.
Greater Accra Region: Innovation in Action
In Greater Accra, 15 teams visited Ashesi University, one of Ghana’s leading science and technology institutions. The visit provided students, teachers, and STEM coordinators with a tour of the university’s innovation labs and entrepreneurship-focused programs.
Teams had the opportunity to engage with university staff, explore design thinking methodologies, and see how simple ideas evolve into viable solutions through prototyping and mentorship. The exposure to advanced technology and problem-solving mindsets challenged the students to think big and dream boldly about the impact their own projects could make. The visit also strengthened their understanding of how academic institutions can play a pivotal role in supporting community-driven innovation.
Ashanti Region: STEM Meets the Future at KNUST
In the Ashanti Region, 20 finalist teams were welcomed to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) for a comprehensive industry visit that included tours of both the College of Engineering and the College of Science.
The teams explored the Physics Lab, Biochemistry Lab, Computer Science Lab, Optometry and Biological Sciences Lab, as well as the practical engineering workshops. With hands-on demonstrations and engaging presentations by KNUST faculty, students learned about sustainable technology, research methods, and how ideas are scaled into real-world products. The visit provided critical insights into the STEM fields, especially for students whose prototypes address challenges in health, agriculture, and infrastructure.
These industry visits served as a reminder of what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity. By connecting students to institutions and professionals in STEM-related fields, the GSTEP Challenge is nurturing not just technical skills but also ambition, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose.
As the teams prepare for the upcoming 2025 GSTEP Exhibition & Awards Ceremony in July, the lessons from these visits will guide them in refining their prototypes and in shaping the future they envision for themselves and their communities.
