The Christian Service University College (CSUC) has formalised its relationship with the Ghana
Robotics Academy Foundation (GRAF) with a memorandum of understanding to promote robotics
inspired education among Ghanaian learners.
The process which was initiated on behalf of CSUC by the Centre for Research and Business Development
involved weeks of discussions, and was completed during the recent middle sector High School robotics
competition involving Ashanti and Brong Ahafo on Wednesday 2 October 2019.
By the terms of the MOU, CSUC becomes a focal point to train and support learners (from elementary
level through to university) educational institutions, neighbourhood clubs, religious groups, etc.,
from Ashanti Region to the northern parts of the country.
According to the President, Prof. Sam Afrane, this new partnership is in line with the vision to
empower people to impact the world as a university of choice. Prior to signing the MOU, the two
organisations had already organised a boot camp in August 2019 at CSUC that trained robotics trainers
for the task ahead.
Robotics incorporates a range of skills, and promotes a learning environment for people with different
talents. As part of their preparations, students are made to work in teams to solve specific problems
provided in advance.
Robotics education enables participants to combine creative thinking with hands-on engagement. To solve
their assigned tasks, students employ teamwork, and develop essential skills by having to think through
the problem strategically with a focus on logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and critical thinking.
The development of this ability is crucial for both academic and professional success which is not
limited to critical science fields, but also for non-science fields. During the recent competition,
staff of the CSUC Computer Science Department prepared two teams that represented Our Lady of Grace
High School. The Department also provided an official who served as one of the judges to oversee the
successful running of the programme.
It would be noted that in May this year, Ghana’s team prepared by GRAF won the 2019 Robofest World
Championship held in Michigan, US, by beating their counterparts from the US, Japan, China, and South Korea
among others. This year’s participants have the opportunity to represent Ghana in next year’s World Robofest
championships other international competitions.
The President, Prof. Sam Afrane signed the MOU on behalf of CSUC, whilst Dr Yaw Okraku-Yirenkyi signed
on behalf of GRAF as the Country Director.
