Level 200 students and faculty of the UGRC Appropriate Technology class at the University of Ghana Takoradi City Campus (UGTCC) took a field trip to the Takoradi office of the Ghana Regional Appropriate Technology Industrial Service (GRATIS) Foundation on 14th July 2025. The trip provided a practical opportunity for students and faculty to observe and understand the operations of GRATIS Foundation and to apply concepts learned in class the knowledge gained from the trip.
The Western Regional Manager of GRATIS Foundation, Mr. Benjamin Bannerman and his Deputy, Mr. Eric Wiredu, along with their colleagues warmly welcomed the class to their premises. During subsequent interactions students and faculty learnt the history, vision, and mission of the Foundation. GRATIS was established in 1995 by the Government of Ghana with financial and technical support from the European Union and the Canadian International Development Agency. It strives to be a leading designer, manufacturer, and supplier of industrial technology in Ghana. Its mission is to consistently design, build, and distribute efficient, appropriate technological machines to clients for use in small and medium enterprises across the country.
Mr. Benjamin Bannerman, the Regional Manager of GRATIS (back to camera, in grey shirt), and Mr. Eric Wiredu, Deputy Regional Manager (in fabric shirt) welcoming students and faculty
Mr. Bannerman and his colleagues patiently and eloquently guided the class through the different departments(eg. the Metal Machining Shop, the Fabrication Shop, and the Welding Shop. These sections of the Foundation are effectively organised and operated by young men and women who are undergoing training or employed full-time by GRATIS, supervised by senior staff. Some are graduates of universities and polytechnics; others are Senior and Junior High School leavers receiving training.
Class listening to staff at the Metal Machining Shop at the Fabrication Shop
Technologies on display include palm oil boiler and extractors, shea butter mixers, flour mixers and rollers, gari processors, juice extractors, and many more. These machines are manufactured entirely by GRATIS engineers and fabricators, except for the core motors, which are imported. Most are largely made from stainless and mild steel materials. In the words of Mr. Bannerman,
‘The appropriateness of our technologies lies in their high efficiency, durability, and low cost, which make them readily accessible to small and medium enterprises throughout Ghana.’
GRATIS’ technologies significantly reduce machinery imports, saving individuals, cooperatives, and businesses substantial costs.
Some technologies on display at GRATIS Fabrication shop
The products are designed and produced based on demand: clients request specific technologies, and GRATIS engineers digitally design and test prototypes before developing the final products to suit clients’ needs. Primary clients include small businesses in Sekondi-Takoradi and agribusiness cooperatives in rural areas. GRATIS trains clients in efficient usage and minor repairs; however, major repairs are handled by GRATIS engineers and technicians.
Key challenges facing GRATIS Foundation include inadequate funding to expand operations and meet increasing client demand, train more young people, and access paid Artificial Intelligence (AI) software. GRATIS hopes to enhance its methodological tools to integrate Artificial Intelligence into product design and testing.
The visit proved immensely valuable, providing students and faculty with practical insights that significantly complemented their classroom learning. The class extends it sincere gratitude to the entire GRATIS team for their expertise and hospitality. Appreciation is also expressed to the Acting Principal, Senior Assistant Registrar, and all staff at UGTCC for their administrative support in facilitating this enriching educational experience.