ATU Partners GCAA and Korea’s Transportation Safety Authority to Launch Drone Competence Development Academy
Accra Technical University (ATU), in partnership with the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (TS), has launched a three-day Drone Competence Development Academy to strengthen Ghana’s growing drone ecosystem. The programme opened on 16th September 2025 at the GCAA Headquarters in Accra The initiative is designed to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge in drone technology, with emphasis on pilot licensing and regulations, safety protocols and legal frameworks, and real-world applications across key sectors. The Academy conducted a live drone demonstration at ATU’s Mpehuasem Campus. The showcase featured advanced uses of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including crop spraying and logistics delivery, demonstrating their transformative potential for agriculture, healthcare, real estate, construction, and public safety. Delivering a speech on behalf of Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, Professor Edmund Ameko reiterated ATU’s mission to advance technical skills, applied research, and community engagement for national and regional development. He underscored drones as valuable tools for STEM education and innovation. Professor Ameko acknowledged ATU’s longstanding collaboration with A-Tech Group Korea, which supported the establishment of the ATU Drone Centre in 2018 and facilitated staff training in South Korea. Mr. Cho Ju Yong of the Korea TS introduced participants to a range of drone models, placing special emphasis on custom-made agricultural drones. He and his team conducted a simulation showcasing how these drones can enhance farming practices and boost agricultural productivity in Ghana. Participants also engaged in an interactive session, asking questions about innovation and its potential impact.
GL Bajaj University, India, Honours ATU Acting VC
Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University (ATU) and President of IEC NC Ghana, has been celebrated for his outstanding leadership and contribution to knowledge during a visit to GL Bajaj University in India. As a distinguished guest, Prof. Acakpovi delivered a thought-provoking presentation to engineering students on the theme “Introduction to EMC and Applications for EMF Measurement and Power Quality”. His lecture highlighted the importance of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of modern electrical systems, and he shared practical insights on how power quality challenges can be addressed through advanced measurement techniques. The special session took place alongside the prestigious IEC General Meeting at the Bharat Mandapam Event Centre in New Delhi, a global platform that brings together experts and policymakers to shape international standards. Prof. Acakpovi was joined on the visit by Dr. Francis Boafo Effah, Head of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), underscoring Ghana’s strong academic presence at the international gathering. At the end of the lecture, Prof. Acakpovi was presented with an Award of Recognition by GL Bajaj University in appreciation of his scholarly contributions and commitment to advancing engineering education. The recognition not only celebrated his individual achievements but also highlighted ATU’s growing reputation as a hub for technical and applied sciences in Africa. Speaking on the sidelines of the visit, Prof. Acakpovi emphasised the importance of international cooperation in higher education. He noted that engagements of this kind pave the way for new research partnerships and faculty and postgraduate student exchange programmes, as well as access to joint funding opportunities between Ghanaian and Indian institutions. The visit is expected to deepen academic ties between Ghana and India, enhance ATU’s global footprint, and further strengthen the role of Ghanaian universities in addressing global engineering and technological challenges. On behalf of the GL Bajaj family, Prof. Jay Singh, Head, Centre for Innovation and Learning, GL Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management, extends heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Amevi Acakpovi for generously sharing his knowledge and precious time.
ATU Kicks Off Maiden Applied Research Conference with Call for Sustainable Solutions
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.
ARCATU 2025 Rolls into Day Two with Spotlight on Research, Tourism, and Fashion for Sustainability
The maiden Applied Research Conference of Accra Technical University (ARCATU) entered its second day with a series of thought-provoking keynote speeches that reinforced the conference theme, “Advancing Technology and Innovation for a Sustainable Future”. The ongoing sessions brought together experts from diverse fields to explore how research, investment, and creativity can be harnessed to address Ghana’s development challenges while promoting long-term sustainability. Chief Executive Officer of InvestEye Capital Partners Limited, Nana Osae Addo-Dankwa, spoke on the importance of building investor-ready research. He explained that no matter how groundbreaking research may be, without investor confidence it cannot translate into development. He urged researchers to package their work in ways that attract funding, stressing that investment creates the pathway for ideas to move from theory to practice. He also highlighted the need to nurture the skills of Ghana’s youth as a driving force for sustainable development and called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to support innovation and entrepreneurship. The conversation on sustainability was broadened by the Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Tours Ghana, Dr. Kwesi Eyison, who turned the spotlight on tourism. Speaking on regenerative tourism, he emphasized the importance of improving Ghana’s coastal and heritage sites not just for immediate gains but for long-term benefit. He explained that tourism should be about restoring and enhancing sites for future generations, rather than simply exploiting them. By developing strategies that ensure local communities benefit directly from tourism activities, Ghana can capture greater value, safeguard its heritage, and promote environmental sustainability. Adding to the day’s insights, the founder and CEO of KAD Manufacturing and Cadling Fashions, Mrs. Linda Ampah, addressed the fashion industry’s role in sustainability. She drew attention to the growing menace of fast fashion, which leads to waste and environmental harm. Instead, she advocated for a circular textiles model in West Africa, designing clothing that lasts longer, promoting repair and recycling, and creating take-back systems that prevent garments from ending up in landfills. She also highlighted the value of local sourcing, which not only supports communities but also reduces the environmental footprint of production.
Building a Research Culture: ATU Faculty of Applied Sciences Hosts Two-Day Seminar
The Faculty of Applied Sciences at Accra Technical University (ATU) has held a two-day seminar to promote collaboration and improve research among its academic staff. The programme, which took place on September 2 and 3, 2025, at the ATU-AFOS DigiCAP Training Centre, was hinged on the theme “Fostering the Culture and Convergence in Applied Research – AI/Emerging Technologies.” The Seminar brought together lecturers and Heads of departments from the five departments of the faculty: Science Laboratory Technology (SLT), Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT), Computer Science (CPS), Information Systems and Technology (IST), and Applied Mathematics and Statistics (AMS). It offered staff the chance to present departmental research activities, showcase ongoing projects, and share ideas on how to strengthen research. The Director of Research, Innovation, Publications and Technology Transfer, Dr. Peter Nyanor, delivered a presentation on grant writing and urged staff to focus on internal collaboration as the first step to building a strong research culture. He explained that while securing external funding is important, lasting progress will come when departments work together, share expertise, and combine their efforts to produce impactful research and increase the faculty’s publications. The Dean of the Faculty, Professor Nana Yaw Asabere, presented an overview of the research output across the various departments. He commended the Departments of Medical Laboratory Technology and Science Laboratory Technology for their outstanding contributions and leadership in research, encouraging other departments to follow their example. He further urged lecturers to apply the insights gained from the seminar by initiating collaborative projects and producing research that addresses real societal challenges. The Seminar also covered areas such as new opportunities for research and the use of artificial intelligence in applied research. Staff also gave presentations to show how their work in laboratory sciences, computing, and data analysis is helping to solve practical problems. The seminar marked an important step in building a stronger research culture in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and advancing ATU’s contribution to innovation and development. It reinforced the need for staff to work more closely across disciplines, share knowledge, and take advantage of new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Ten ATU Students Benefit from MTN Bright Scholarship Awards
Ten students of Accra Technical University (ATU) have been awarded the MTN Bright Scholarship at a ceremony held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at the Wesley Towers, Ridge, Accra. The event brought together dignitaries, corporate leaders, academics, and scholarship beneficiaries from across the country to celebrate this year’s cohort of awardees. The MTN Bright Scholarship, instituted by the MTN Ghana Foundation, is designed to provide full support for brilliant but financially challenged students in tertiary institutions. Beneficiaries receive tuition, accommodation, a stipend, and a laptop to help them in their studies. This year, 500 students and teachers across the country were selected through a competitive process that attracted over 3,600 applications.Ten ATU students were part of the beneficiaries. They came from different faculties, demonstrating the university’s strong performance across several disciplines. Their success also reflects ATU’s growing contribution to training skilled graduates who can support Ghana’s development, especially in technical and applied sciences. The University was represented at the ceremony by Ms. Fausta Killian Ganaa, Director of Public Affairs, and Mrs. Esther Dortey, Head of Students’ Financial Support Services, who also doubled as a panel member. They joined other dignitaries to witness the achievements of the students and to share in the celebration of the impact the scholarship is making in the lives of young people across the country.Since its re-launch in 2018, the MTN Bright Scholarship has supported hundreds of students nationwide, with many graduates now working in areas such as engineering, medicine, business, and education. For ATU, the recognition of its ten students in this year’s awards is an important milestone and an encouragement for others to aim higher. The achievement of these students is a proud moment for ATU and a reminder of the University’s commitment to supporting learners in reaching their full potential.
Notice to Graduate Students – 2025/2026 Academic Calendar
The University community is hereby informed that the reopening and commencement dates for graduate students have been revised as follows:• Monday, 17th November 2025 – Reopening for continuing graduate students• Monday, 17th November 2025 – Opening for fresh graduate students (MTech/MSc/MA) This notice supersedes the earlier communication on the subject. All graduate students are kindly requested to take note and act accordingly. Equally, faculty and staff are kindly requested to take note of these changes and provide the necessary administrative and academic support to ensure a smooth commencement of the academic year.Thank you.
The Ghana Aero Drone Basics Nano Degree Programme
ATU Renews Collaboration with Furnart Ghana Ltd. to Strengthen Industry-Focused Training
Accra Technical University (ATU) has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Furnart Ghana Ltd. to enhance practical training for students in the Department of Interior Design and Upholstery Technology. The agreement was signed on August 22, 2025. The renewed partnership aims to provide students with increased opportunities to combine classroom learning with hands-on industrial experience, while also promoting applied research, technology transfer, and innovation in furniture and interior design. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Furnart Ghana Ltd. Managing Director, Madam Opheibea Omaboe, expressed her delight at the renewal of the partnership, noting that she looks forward to welcoming ATU students and reaffirming the company’s commitment to supporting the university’s mandate of producing job-ready graduates. ATU’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, described the renewal as a strategic step in deepening the university’s engagement with industry. He stressed the importance of partnerships that align academic training with national development priorities and assured Furnart Ghana Ltd. of ATU’s dedication to providing industry-relevant education. The Head of Department of Interior Design and Upholstery Technology, Dr. Isaac Aidoo, also expressed optimism about the MoU renewal, stating that it will continue to produce a skilled workforce ready for industry recruitment. The agreement further provides room for career guidance, vocational counselling, industrial attachments, as well as exhibitions and competitions to showcase student creativity and innovation. It reflects ATU’s broader agenda of strengthening academia-industry collaboration to bridge the gap between classroom training and workplace needs, ultimately contributing to Ghana’s socio-economic growth.
TUTAG Holds 50th Annual Delegates Congress: Acting ATU VC Urges Focus on Core Mandate
The Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has organized its 50th Annual Delegates Congress in Accra, bringing together executives and local union representatives from technical universities nationwide to deliberate on critical issues shaping the future of technical education in Ghana. The congress, held on August 27, 2025, at Accra Technical University, was themed “Sustainable Skills for a Sustainable Future: Aligning Technical Education with National and Global Development Goals.” In his welcome address, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University, congratulated TUTAG on its golden jubilee and lauded its decades-long advocacy. “Fifty years is no small feat. It reflects resilience, purpose, and commitment to Ghana’s technical education agenda,” he noted. He urged members to remain focused on their core mandate as technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions. “Let us redeem and shape the image of technical universities. We must not only train students but also contribute to national conversations that shape our future,” he added. TUTAG National President, Professor Uriah S. Tetteh, welcomed delegates and highlighted the congress as both a celebration of achievements and an opportunity to craft a forward-looking strategy. “This congress is not just a celebration of our past; it is a strategic moment to examine current challenges and commit to a future where technical education drives national development,” he emphasized. Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu represented by Dr. Emmanuel Newman, Director of Tertiary Education at the Ministry, praised the theme as timely and underscored the need for stronger collaboration between technical universities and industry to bridge the gap between academia and the job market. He assured delegates of the government’s continued support for TVET initiatives to build a skilled workforce for national growth. Professor Augustine Ocloo, Deputy Director-General of, Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, called for curriculum innovation and regular reforms to meet emerging needs, warning against the misuse of academic titles, which he said undermines the integrity of Ghana’s academic institutions. Dr. George Smith-Graham, CEO of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, acknowledged TUTAG’s role in national development and stressed aligning technical education with global trends. “Technical universities are critical to Ghana’s transformation. The future requires that we equip students not only with knowledge but also with practical skills to solve real-world problems,” he said. He proposed dedicated funding for staff development and research, supported by alumni, the private sector, and development partners, while encouraging income generation through consultancy, short courses, applied research, and innovation hubs. Goodwill messages from Mr. Maxwell Bunu, National President of the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), and Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu, National President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), reaffirmed the solidarity among tertiary education unions in advancing higher education in Ghana. As TUTAG celebrates its 50th anniversary, the association reiterated its commitment to promoting technical education and developing a workforce equipped with sustainable skills to meet national and global development needs.
