By Francis Kwabena Cofie
Accra, Aug. 31, GNA – The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Region ‘8’, Ghana Section, has held a three-day Africa Students and Young Professionals Congress (ASYPC) at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra.
The congress provides professional mentorship and training to empower students and young professionals through interactive sessions on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
It was on the theme “Empowering Africa’s future leaders through STEM,” which brought together about 200 participants from various tertiary institutions across the country.
It was opened with workshops to train students on how to think critically and generate ideas that address issues peculiar to the local context, followed by leadership workshops on ways of accessing funds for business development.
The congress entailed entrepreneurship session, STEM summit, aerospace and electronic systems, young professionals, and student leadership sessions.
Others include humanitarian technology session and information desk, hands-on STEM workshop on Internet of Things (IOT), AI and data analytics and cyber security.
Mr Mohammed Adam Sukparu, the Deputy Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, in an address, said IEEE has long been a beacon of technological advancement and professional development.
He said by connecting African youth with international experts, fostering research and partnerships, and organizing platforms such as the congress, IEEE was helping to cultivate a generation of engineers, scientists and leaders who would redefine Africa’s future.
“Around the globe nations that prioritize STEM are at the forefront of innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development.
“By engaging students in real-world problem-solving, we are equipping them with the skills to develop local solutions that protect our digital ecosystem, enhance trust in technology and promote inclusive growth, “he stated.
The Minister said cyber security and the Internet of Things (IOT) were foundational to economic resilience and societal well-being.
“In Ghana, we are committed to building a resilient and inclusive digital economy through strategic investment in digital infrastructure, e-governance, fintech innovation, and ICT innovation.
“We are building the digital education and ensuring that every Ghanaian has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age,” Mr Sukparu said.
He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to working with IEEE and all partners to nurture an ecosystem where technology and talent thrive.
“The future of Africa rests in your hand. You are the innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and change-makers who would define the continent’s destiny through the power of STEM,” he noted.
Professor Kathleen Kramer, the 2025 IEEE President and Chief Executive Officer in a speech said one of the major aims of the IEEE was to connect students for success in industry which the congress sought to achieve.
She said if IEEE was not a bridge to professional success in the scheme of things, then it would be failing in its core mission and value, adding that IEEE membership presents an opportunity for career advancement in diverse ways.
Prof Kramer indicated that STEM education was crucial not only to solving today’s challenges in society but also preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
Dr. Antonio Luque, IEEE Membership Geographic Activities Vice President said IEEE mission was to foster technological advancement for the benefit of humanity.
He said the goal of IEEE was to promote and establish contact with the activities of the base level that touch lives and experiences of many people.
He disclosed that the Institute was able to organize events in so many places globally at the same time in view of its substantial numbers and volunteers everywhere who are relied on to carry out activities.
“We have almost 500,000 members all over the world with 11,000 members in Africa, “he said.
Mr. Maxwell Darko Addison, Chair, 2025 ASYP described the event as a breakthrough with resounding success.
He emphasized the importance of the soft skills received by participants, apart from practical hands-on experience which would create a positive impact on their professional journey.
Mr Mensah Sitti, IEEE Ghana Section Chair in a closing remark expressed appreciation for the remarkable skills, development, and collaboration from insightful discussions on technological advancement to inspiring networking sessions that have fostered connections across continents and countries.
He urged members to continue to learn from one another and highlight Africa’s growing influence in STEM.
Awards were given to organizing committee members who were drawn from students and young professionals tertiary institutions while STEM exhibitions also took place.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade