The 2nd Applied Research Conference of Accra Technical University (ARCATU 2026) has been successfully launched, setting the stage for researchers, students and industry professionals to explore how applied research and Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be used to address real development challenges.
The virtual launch, held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the University’s Council Chamber, introduced this year’s conference theme, “Applied Research and Innovation for Sustainable and Resilient Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence (AI).”
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Clinton Aigbavbova of the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, called for a shift from research that ends with publication to research that produces practical solutions and measurable impact.
Professor Aigbavbova, Professor of Sustainable Human Development and Director of the CIDB Centre of Excellence and Sustainable Human Settlement and Construction Research, noted that Africa’s development challenges are increasingly connected and require solutions that bring research and emerging technologies together.
He explained that applied research and AI can serve as complementary drivers of development. While applied research helps to clearly define problems and provide evidence, AI offers greater analytical, predictive and decision-making capabilities. For him, meaningful impact comes when knowledge and technology are combined and applied to real problems.
Professor Aigbavbova also stressed the need for the responsible use of AI. He noted that while applied research and AI have become essential to development, technology must remain guided by human judgement, inclusion, human rights and the wider goal of improving people’s lives. He cautioned that AI could create new risks where proper governance and ethical safeguards are lacking.
He welcomed the focus of ARCATU 2026, describing the theme as timely and relevant at a time when AI is rapidly changing research, industry and society.
Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, expressed excitement about the second edition of ARCATU and its focus on turning research into solutions that respond to society’s needs.
He noted that research should go beyond generating knowledge to producing technologies, products, enterprises and policies that have practical value. With AI now influencing almost every sector, he said attention must shift from simply adopting the technology to finding ways of using AI and other emerging technologies to address challenges such as climate change, food security and sustainability while creating opportunities for people.
Professor Acakpovi reiterated the University’s commitment to creating an environment where applied research and innovation can thrive. He described ARCATU as one of the platforms through which ATU is connecting research to practical solutions and encouraged researchers, students and industry professionals to use the conference to exchange knowledge, develop new ideas and build collaborations.
The Applied Research Conference of Accra Technical University (ARCATU 2026) is the premier annual research event at Accra Technical University, bringing together academics, researchers, industry experts, and students to discuss cutting-edge innovations and sustainable solutions for the future. This year, ARCATU 2026 will take place from September 16-18, 2026, at Accra Technical University, Ghana.
The conference will provide a multidisciplinary platform for researchers, students, industry professionals and other stakeholders to present research, innovations, prototypes, case studies and practical solutions.
