The Office of Research Innovation and Development (ORID) in collaboration with the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), has launched the UG Makerspace. The virtual event took place via zoom on Friday, 31st July, 2020.
The Director of ORID, Prof. Obeng Adjei in his statement, commended the immediate past Pro- Vice Chancellor, Prof Francis Dodoo for his immense support and contribution in the establishment of the UG Makerspace which is projected to birth innovations and technologies that will provide solutions to developmental challenges. Prof. Obeng Adjei noted that the UG Makerspace was poised to become a catalyst that will activate dormant critical thinking skills, imagination and explorative learning environment that abound on the University’s campus. He was hopeful that various categories of entrepreneurs, sustainable businesses, and products are going to emanate from the Makerspace.
While thanking the cadre of staff, collaborators and the Makers who worked very hard to make the launch possible, Prof. Obeng Adjei gave an assurance of ORID’s support in the smooth running of the UG Makerspace. He further urged them to continue to collaborate and stay committed to ensuring that the vision of the UG Makerspace is reached.
Prof. Oduro Nkansah, Director, IAST in his speech lauded the UG Makerspace project. He noted that the UG Makerspace links itself to some of the technology incubation programmes run by the IAST. He noted that industry needs well prepared graduates to work with, hence the need for students to have hands-on practical experience through projects such as the Makerspace to equip them adequately for the market. He advocated that the UG Makerspace should respect diversity, embrace inclusivity and adopt a multidisciplinary approach in order to be able to create solutions that are applicable to everyday life challenges. Prof. Nkansah also called on the University’s faculty to offer themselves as mentors and coaches to students and charged the Makers to develop products that will harness the development of the country.
The virtual launch was graced by the incoming Pro-Vice Chancellor of Research, Innovation and Development, Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante and attracted participation from dignitaries both within and outside the country.
A group photo of participants
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTqMWHWx8cs
