The 2026 Ghana Science & Tech Explorer Challenge Prize (GSTEP) has officially announced the selection of 120 semi-finalist teams for the semi-finalist stage of the 2026 Challenge. This year, for the first time, teams from the Volta region join the teams from Ashanti, Greater Accra, and Eastern Regions to compete for the 2026 bragging rights. Out of the 120 selected semi-finalist teams, Ashanti has 42 teams, Greater Accra has 26, Eastern Region has 26, and Volta Region also has 26 teams.
At the semi-finalist stage, the teams shall begin turning their ideas into workable solutions through the development of a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The MVP is a functional version of their concept or idea that demonstrates how their solution could make a difference in their various communities. Alongside this, they will create a team and business model canvas, helping them define the problem they are addressing, the people who will benefit, and the resources and strategies needed to bring their ideas to life.
Every team will be paired with a dedicated business mentor and coach to guide them through this stage, providing support in both technical and entrepreneurship. In addition, each team will receive a One4All Kids kit, providing tools and materials to help bring their MVPs to reality. They will also be given a semi-finalist handbook and teacher guide. This combination of mentorship and hands-on resources ensures that teams do not only build innovative solutions but also gain practical skills that extend far beyond the competition.
For the teams that were not selected at the semi-finalist stage, GSTEP creates an opportunity for the teams to try again through the Perseverance Awards Program. These teams can refine their ideas, improve their solutions, and resubmit, giving them another chance to be a part of the 2026 Challenge. Successful applicants through this program will stand a chance to win the 2026 Perseverance Award, recognising creativity, dedication, and resilience.
As the semi-finalist stage begins, the focus is on creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. The teams must demonstrate the impact, feasibility, and innovation of their ideas to earn a place in the finalist stage. While only the strongest will advance, every team gains invaluable experience, preparing them to become the next generation of problem-solvers and STEM changemakers in Ghana.
The 2026 GSTEP Challenge is implemented by a consortium of four organisations: DreamOval Foundation (lead implementor), Partnership Bureau (partnerships and sponsorships), Shulem Lake (resources and materials), and Practical Education Network (mentorship and coaching).
The GSTEP Challenge operates in partnership with the Ghana Education Service and the Ministry of Education and is funded by the Fondation Botnar.
