Accra, Aug. 18, GNA – Students of the Design and Technology Institute (DTI) have showcased innovative capstone projects ranging from robotics and assistive technology to sustainable housing models, digital art, and upcycled fashion at the Institute’s 2026 Student Capstone Projects Exhibition in Accra.
The exhibition, held under the theme, “Creative Minds, Sustainable Solutions,” brought together students, parents, educators, and industry stakeholders to witness practical innovations developed by learners as part of their studies.
The projects highlighted the application of technical and creative skills to address real-world challenges, with students presenting concepts on future cities, affordable housing, automation, accessibility, sustainability, and African cultural expression.
Among the exhibits were a robot delivery device designed to demonstrate the practical use of automation, a smart assistive cane developed to support persons with visual impairments, and an immersive digital art experience portraying Africa’s renaissance through large LED displays.
Other students showcased sculpted metal artworks and products created from recycled materials, demonstrating how waste can be transformed into fashion items and functional household products.
Organisers said the exhibition was designed to enable students to move beyond theoretical learning by identifying problems, developing solutions, collaborating with peers, and presenting their work before an audience.
Speaking at the event, Ms Constance Swaniker, Founder and President of DTI, said the projects reflected the institute’s commitment to equipping young people with practical skills and problem-solving abilities.
“What was on display was not simply a collection of finished objects. It was evidence of young people who have learned how to think, how to make and how to solve. That is the education Ghana and Africa need, and it is the education we are committed to delivering,” she said.
She noted that DTI’s industry-aligned training model integrated technical skills, design, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation to help bridge the gap between education and employment.
According to the Institute, the capstone projects form part of efforts to prepare students for careers in sectors where technical and creative skills are increasingly required.
Some graduates are expected to transition directly into employment, while others will be supported to establish businesses through the provision of seed capital and starter kits.
DTI said the initiative was strengthened through its partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, which supports young people with access to skills development and opportunities for dignified employment and entrepreneurship.
Parents who attended the exhibition described the event as an opportunity to witness the capabilities of their children, while industry representatives viewed it as a platform for identifying emerging talent.
The exhibition also underscored the role of practical learning in preparing young people to contribute to national development through innovation, creativity, and enterprise.
The Design and Technology Institute is a not-for-profit pan-African centre of excellence for technical and vocational education and training.
The institution provides industry-focused training in design, technology, entrepreneurship, and precision skills, with international accreditation from the American Welding Society, the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute of the United States, and Pearson UK.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade