The maiden Applied Research Conference of Accra Technical University (ARCATU) has kicked off at the African Trade House in Accra, drawing together academics, students, industry leaders, and policymakers for three days of dialogue and discovery. Held from September 17 to 19, 2025, the conference is taking place under the theme “Advancing Technology and Innovation for a Sustainable Future”, a call to action for research that addresses the pressing challenges facing Ghana and the wider region.
Speaking at the opening of the conference, the Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor of ATU, Professor Felix Kutsanedzie, who also chaired the conference, emphasised that applied research must always focus on reducing waste and improving human wellbeing. He explained that whether in science, technology, or the arts, research should translate into practical solutions that address issues such as climate change and waste management. He reminded participants that the essence of the conference was to raise public awareness and build commitment toward using technology as a tool for sustaining humanity.
The event also featured a keynote presentation by Professor Kofi Sarpong Adu-Manu of the University of
Ghana’s Computer Science Department. He spoke on energy-efficient Internet of Things (IoT) applications for water quality monitoring and flood early warning systems. Stressing that flooding remains one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges, he called for closer collaboration between academia and industry to design low-cost sensor devices that can track water levels, air quality, and flood risks.
Professor Adu-Manu pointed out that such innovations could help prevent disasters by offering early warnings and supporting national preparedness efforts. He encouraged researchers not to limit their work to academic publications but to ensure that their findings are implemented to solve real problems facing communities.
The maiden ARCATU conference provides a platform for exchanging knowledge, mentoring young researchers, and building partnerships that address critical challenges in Ghana and beyond. Structured around three parallel tracks, Engineering, Science and Urban Sustainability; Sustainable Business and Entrepreneurship; and Applied Arts, Design and Sustainability. The conference will also produce a peer-reviewed Book of Abstracts and a post-event communiqué with actionable recommendations.