The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is emphasizing the critical importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry to drive socio-economic development in Ghana. To this end, the Computer Engineering Department has organized the KNUST Technology Week 2024 (TWEEK ‘24), aimed at aligning academic research with real-world needs.
Under the theme “From the Breadboard to Boardroom: Transforming Innovations into Sustainable Businesses,” the event seeks to harness theoretical knowledge to address societal challenges practically. This initiative provides a platform for final year students to interact with industry leaders, showcasing their innovations with the potential to be developed into viable products.
Head of the Computer Engineering Department, Prof. Emmanuel Akowuah, remarked, “This initiative aligns with KNUST’s vision of transforming knowledge into impactful solutions for society.” Provost of the College of Engineering, Prof. Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko, noted, “TWEEK ‘24 highlights the innovative spirit of our students and embodies the collaborative essence between industry and academia.
We aim to transform ideas into viable businesses through strong collaboration, leading to new products, processes, and startups.” Dean of the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Professor Emmanuel Frimpong, emphasized the role of such events in tackling graduate unemployment.
“As a nation, we are very concerned about the high rate of graduate unemployment. It is evident that we cannot rely solely on the government to create jobs for the many graduates we produce each year,” he stated.
The three-day event, featuring panel discussions, presentations, and exhibitions, was designed in collaboration with industry partners. David Ofori from NEIP, Henry Sewordor from Telecel Ghana, David Gowu from INNGEN, and Kwadwo Baah Agyemang of Ghana Digital Centres Limited, shared their insights on creating a vibrant innovation ecosystem in Ghana.
Chief Solutions Architect of IT Consortium Limited, Franklin Eleblu, highlighted the need for government support. “A thriving innovation ecosystem needs a supportive government that creates an enabling environment for businesses to flourish. This includes policies that encourage investments, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and protect intellectual property,” he said.