ATU Honoured for Outstanding Leadership in Technical Education and Digital Transformation

ATU News UpdateAccra Technical University (ATU) has been honoured by the African Academia Excellence for its exemplary leadership in technical education and digital transformation. The prestigious continental event convened academics, innovators, and institutional leaders under the theme “Digital Transformation, Renewable Energy, and ICT Solutions for Education in Africa”.The award was presented on November 5, 2025, at a ceremony held at the M-Hotel in Rwanda. ATU, recognised as Ghana’s leading technical university, received the honour for its commitment to advancing hands-on technical training and integrating digital systems to enhance teaching, learning, and university operations. This achievement marks a major milestone for the university, strengthening its growing influence in higher education not only in Ghana but also across Africa. It highlights its ongoing efforts to combine practical education with modern technology to prepare graduates for the contemporary workforce.The African Academic Excellence Conference and Awards is an annual continental event organised by The Business Executive Media Group. The 2025 edition, which was the third in the series, celebrated innovation, quality, and institutional excellence across Africa, with a strong call for collaboration among universities to drive academic growth and digital advancement.

Prof. Amevi Acakpovi Appointed Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University

Accra Technical University (ATU) is set to begin a new chapter of leadership with the appointment of Professor Amevi Acakpovi as its new Vice-Chancellor. The announcement was made following the Governing Council’s 123rd Regular Meeting held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, with the appointment taking effect from January 2, 2026, for a four-year term. Prof. Acakpovi’s appointment marks a moment of pride and optimism for the University community. A distinguished academic and seasoned administrator, he succeeds Professor Samuel Nii Odai, whose tenure ended on June 30, 2023. Professor Amevi Acakpovi is a Professor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Accra Technical University and a distinguished figure in engineering research and innovation, with numerous accolades to his credit; the most recent being his recognition as the SDGs Africa Influential Personality at the 6th African Sustainability and SDG Awards in October 2025. A leader driven by innovation and excellence, Professor Acakpovi brings extensive experience in higher education management, research, and academic leadership. He has previously served as Pro Vice-Chancellor and Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University, roles through which he demonstrated exceptional vision, dedication, and strategic acumen in advancing the institution’s development agenda Under his leadership, ATU recorded significant milestones in promoting technical education, research, and industry collaboration, positioning the University as a leader in applied sciences and innovation within Ghana’s tertiary landscape. In a statement signed by the Acting Registrar, Mr. Adu-Adjei Mensah, the Council expressed confidence in Prof. Acakpovi’s ability to steer the University to greater heights, noting that his appointment aligns with ATU’s long-term goal of becoming a world-class technical institution driven by excellence in teaching, learning, research, and community impact. “Prof. Amevi Acakpovi will provide strategic leadership and direction to ensure that the University continues to fulfill its mandate of excellence in teaching, learning, research, innovation, and community service,” the statement read. Members of the University community, including management, staff, and students, have warmly congratulated Prof. Acakpovi on his appointment, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication, integrity, and long-standing service to the institution. As ATU looks toward the future, expectations are high for a tenure that will deepen its commitment to integrity, creativity, and excellence, while strengthening its footprint as the technical university of choice in the West African subregion.

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.

Minister for Education Swears in New ATU Governing Council

The Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has officially sworn in the new Governing Council of Accra Technical University (ATU) at a short but important ceremony held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the Ministry of Education in Accra. In his remarks, the minister congratulated the newly appointed members and praised ATU for its ongoing contribution to technical and vocational education in Ghana. He said he was confident that the new council would help move the university forward, especially as technical institutions are expected to play a key role in addressing youth unemployment in the country. The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the University, particularly in completing its ongoing infrastructure projects. He noted that unfinished projects, especially those funded by GETFund, represent valuable investments that should not go to waste. While commending the university for its achievements so far, Hon. Iddrisu also encouraged the council to consider new ways to include young people who may not currently qualify for entry into technical universities. He stressed the importance of creating more opportunities for such individuals as part of efforts to make technical education more inclusive and responsive to the needs of the job market. The minister believes that one of the best ways to tackle unemployment in Ghana is to invest in technical and vocational education. He urged stakeholders to help make technical universities more appealing and well-recognised as reliable paths to job creation and entrepreneurship. Chairperson of the Governing Council, Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi, thanked the minister for the confidence placed in the council. He assured him that the team is committed to supporting national development through responsible leadership and continuous improvement at the university.

GA Mantse Calls for Stronger Government-Industry-Academia Collaboration in Technical Education

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for intensified collaboration between government, industry, and academia to drive technical and vocational education in Ghana. Speaking at the 75th Anniversary Climax of Accra Technical University (ATU) on February 27, at the University’s Auditorium, the revered traditional leader emphasised the crucial role of industry partnerships in equipping graduates with relevant skills for national development. He called for the need for synergy between education and industry. “I call on the government and industry stakeholders to intensify their technical and vocational educational support. Together, we must enhance collaboration between academia and industry, ensuring that graduates possess skills that match contemporary industrial needs, thus giving our economic transformation a boost,” he stated. He further challenged students and alumni to leverage their education to drive national progress. “You are Ghana’s greatest resource, so, harness your education to drive change, create jobs, and lead innovation,” he urged. The Ga Mantse also professed the unflinching commitment of the Ga State to educational development. Through the initiatives of the Ga Mantse Foundation, he noted that efforts have been made to promote educational empowerment, preserve heritage, and build resilient communities. Amidst discussions on the rapid advancements in digital technology and artificial intelligence, he stressed the need for ATU to remain a leader in innovation. “As the world rapidly evolves with digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies, ATU must remain at the forefront of these developments. We should strengthen industrial collaborations, prioritise groundbreaking research, and champion entrepreneurship among our students,” he said. The event was held to climax the 75th anniversary of the premier Technical University, celebrating its legacy of innovation, practical knowledge, and vocational excellence. It was attended by notable personalities including Government representatives, Industry leaders, and the University Management. The Ga Mantse used the occasion to pledge the Ga State’s continued support to ensure that ATU remains a distinguished institution of practical learning, innovation, and national pride.

American Bureau of Shipping Awards $12,000 in Scholarships to ATU Students

The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing young talent by awarding scholarships worth $12,000 to 68 students from Accra Technical University (ATU). The prestigious initiative is part of ABS’s broader effort to empower future leaders in technical and engineering-related fields. The scholarships, announced during an official ceremony held on December 2, 2024, at the University’s Lodge, were awarded to students in Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and Building Technology. The selection criteria emphasized academic excellence and financial need, aligning with ABS’s goal of fostering a well-rounded, skilled workforce. Mr. Iain Nuttall, ABS’s Area Operations Manager for Africa, emphasised the organization’s dedication to supporting students’ academic and professional growth. “At ABS, we believe in equipping young leaders with the tools they need to excel. This scholarship program is a demonstration of our vision of shaping a future defined by excellence,” he stated, encouraging the recipients to embrace the opportunity and pursue their aspirations with diligence. The Acting Vice-Chancellor of ATU commended ABS for selecting the institution, highlighting ATU’s reputation as Ghana’s premier technical university. He underscored the transformative impact of the scholarships, noting that they alleviate financial barriers and motivate students to achieve academic excellence. Addressing the beneficiaries, he urged them to uphold discipline and integrity, reminding them that their performance would ensure ATU remains eligible for similar opportunities in the future. Established in 1862, ABS specialises in marine and offshore classification services and maintains a global reputation for promoting safety and innovation. Through its scholarship program, ABS continues to invest in the next generation of leaders, strengthening its legacy of excellence in technical and engineering education. This initiative is another milestone in ABS’s long-standing mission to empower the next generation, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a competitive global environment.

ATU’s Acting Vice-Chancellor Illuminates Global Stage at Going Global Africa 2024

Accra Technical University (ATU) continues to shine on the international stage as its Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, delivered a keynote address at the highly esteemed Going Global Africa 2024 Conference. The event, organized by the British Council, took place from November 26–29, 2024, bringing together thought leaders, educators, and policymakers across the continent to discuss transformative strategies for higher education. Revolutionising Education for a Future-Ready Workforce In “Addressing the Skills Gap: Competencies Students Will Need in 2050,” Prof. Acakpovi emphasized the need to blend advanced technologies with human creativity and empathy. He called for reimagining education that prioritizes critical areas such as sustainability, global citizenship, and inclusivity, ensuring that students are equipped to thrive in industries that demand technical expertise, social intelligence, and adaptability. Noting the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and quantum technology, Prof. Acakpovi stressed the need for graduates to possess technical and interpersonal skills to succeed in a dynamic global workforce. He highlighted strategies to bridge the skills gap, including curriculum innovation, strengthening technical and vocational education (TVET), fostering digital transformation, and expanding global partnerships. ATU: A Leader in Technical Education and Innovation In his address, Prof. Acakpovi showcased ATU’s achievements as a model institution driving innovation and excellence in technical education. He highlighted the launch of 23 Bachelor of Technology (BTech) and 11 Master of Technology (MTech) programs tailored to meet industry demands. These programs, he said, are designed to provide students with practical, cutting-edge knowledge that aligns with emerging trends. He also cited groundbreaking research achievements at ATU, including the development of vision-based artificial intelligence systems and renewable energy innovations, as examples of the university’s commitment to addressing real-world problems through technology, inspiring all associated with ATU to contribute to the betterment of society. Prof. Acakpovi further emphasized ATU’s global collaborations with leading institutions, including London South Bank University, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, and A-Tech Korea. These partnerships, he explained, enhance research opportunities, promote international knowledge exchange, and provide students and faculty with a global perspective. He also celebrated ATU’s recognition as the Best Technical University in West Africa for 2024 and its ranking as the fourth-best university in Ghana in 2023 by THE Rankings, describing these accolades as a testament to the university’s dedication to excellence. A Visionary Outlook Concluding his presentation, Prof. Acakpovi stressed the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning. “The Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions bring both challenges and opportunities,” he said, adding, “ATU is committed to leading the transformation of education by providing our students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.” ATU’s engagement in the Going Global Africa Conference further reaffirms its technical education and innovation leadership, highlighting its determination to empower graduates to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global landscape.

ATU Partners with IBG Foundation to Advance Gender Equality and Empower Women

Accra Technical University has taken a bold step toward championing women’s empowerment and fostering social inclusivity through a partnership with the I Believe Global Foundation (IBG), a civil society organisation dedicated to empowering women and promoting gender equality, particularly in developing economies. This strategic partnership, inked on November 26, 2024, stems from a shared commitment to advancing women’s development through education and acquiring future-ready digital skills. The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration between the two institutions, focusing on cooperative programs, joint research and training activities, and initiatives that promote social inclusion and diversity. The MOU was finalised in an official signing ceremony during IBG’s 2nd International Conference on Gender Equality, marking a significant step forward in advancing gender-focused initiatives. In the future, ATU and IBG will collaborate on community outreach programmes, gender-based capacity-building activities, and co-hosted conferences and events. This partnership reaffirms ATU’s dedication to empowering its female students with innovative opportunities, ensuring they are equipped for leadership roles soon.

ATU Cybersecurity Symposium Calls for Comprehensive Approach to Cyber Education and Awareness

Accra Technical University (ATU) has called for a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity awareness and education at its Cyber Security Symposium on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the University auditorium. The event themed “Empowering the Next Generation Cyber Defenders: Building a Resilient Digital Future,” addressed both national and global cyber security challenges, including cybercrime, data protection, and the need for cybersecurity education. Delivering the keynote address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, reiterated ATU’s commitment to prioritising cybersecurity in response to the growing digital landscape in Ghana. He noted the significant losses caused by cyberattacks such as phishing, ransomware, and malware, stressing that public data has become a prime target for cybercriminals. Professor Acakpovi called for stronger measures to protect public data and foster public awareness, emphasising the importance of compliance with Ghana’s Data Protection Act, which faces enforcement challenges. He further advocated for integrating cybersecurity education across all academic disciplines, promoting capacity-building initiatives to equip the next generation with the skills to safeguard digital infrastructure. Mr. Stephen Cudjoe-Seshie, Lead, National Computer Emergency Response Team, Cyber Security Authority (CSA), who represented the Director General, highlighted the pivotal role of information technology in driving innovation but acknowledged the associated risks. He revealed that 36% of Ghanaians have experienced data breaches in recent years, with cybercrimes such as online fraud, WhatsApp hacks, and cyberbullying becoming prevalent. Mr. Cudjoe-Seshie pointed to a troubling shortage of skilled cyber security professionals in Ghana, noting that even those available often lack critical expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, incident response, and application security. “There is a growing need for cyber security professionals to protect our digital infrastructure, but there’s a significant gap in the necessary skills,” he said. He also outlined the CSA’s efforts to address this gap through targeted programmes for training and licensing cybersecurity experts. Additionally, the CSA has partnered with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to incorporate cyber security into the national education curriculum. The symposium featured a panel of experts who discussed the need for inclusivity in cybersecurity education. Mr. George Babafemi, a Fintech Consultant and Board Member of eTranzact Ghana Limited, talked about the psychological effects of cybercrime and the need for sensitisation among the public as everyone stands at risk. He spoke about the fear, anxiety and distress surrounding cyber-related crimes and the irreparable damage they cause to people’s lives. Dr. Edward Ansong, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Computer Science, University of Ghana, advocated demystifying the perception that cybersecurity is solely a tech career. He argued that cybersecurity affects all aspects of life and should be embedded in the education system, making it accessible to students across all disciplines. The Panelists agreed on the idea of enhancing cyber security education. Mr. Babafemi stressed the need for all to be vigilant in protecting data. According to him, “data is the new gold” and for every institution that deals with people’s data, it is imperative to prioritise data protection. Dr. Ansong again said that training on cyber security should not be relegated to top management but even among the least on the institutional hierarchy. He said that data protection is a collective responsibility.  Director of ICT at Accra Technical University, Dr. Sylvester Hatsu, buttressed this sentiment, calling for revisions to the university’s curriculum to provide short courses and professional certifications in cybersecurity for students outside of traditional science programs. The Cyber Security Awareness Symposium was part of ATU’s celebration of October, dedicated to the national cyber security awareness celebration. The event was a partnership between Accra Technical University and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and sponsored by eTranzact Ghana Limited, Digital Arena, Tellingent (GH) Systems and Improtech Systems.