Director of the Science Education Unit at GES Urges Students to Seize the GSTEP Challenge Opportunity

The Director of the Science Education Unit at Ghana Education Service (GES), Madam Olivia Serwaa Opare has emphasized the crucial role of STEM (Science, innovation, Engineering, and Mathematics) in Ghana's future.

She highlighted the Ghana Science & Tech Explorer Prize (GSTEP) test 2025 as a vital initiative that empowers students to become leaders in innovation. Opare encouraged students to showcase their talents and make a meaningful impact in their communities, stating, "The future is in your hands."

The DreamOval Foundation, leading the GSTEP consortium, reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators. Afua Oforiwaa Asaimah Adjei, Executive Director of the Foundation, expressed optimism about the future of STEM education in Ghana, noting that the mission is to equip young minds with the essential skills to tackle real-world obstacles. She looked forward to seeing groundbreaking ideas from this year’s participants.

Keren Arkoh, Project Manager at DreamOval Foundation, provided details on the application process, emphasizing that all information is available on the GSTEP website, with a submission deadline of November 11, 2024. Selected teams will present their innovative solutions at a grand exhibition and awards ceremony next year, with awards for the most impactful projects.

The GSTEP test allows junior high school students (ages 11-16) in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Eastern Regions to apply in teams, supported by their teachers and STEM coordinators. The process is designed to be user-friendly, fostering creativity and crucial thinking while addressing pressing community issues in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, and the environment.

Funded by Fondation Botnar and implemented by a consortium including DreamOval Foundation, the Partnership Bureau, Shulem Lake, and Practical Education Network (PEN), GSTEP aims to cultivate STEM talent and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among young learners in Ghana.

The GSTEP test not only aims to ignite a passion for STEM but also to instill a sense of responsibility among students to engage with real-world obstacles. By participating in this initiative, students have the chance to collaborate, think critically, and develop innovative solutions that can lead to tangible improvements in their communities.

Through hands-on experiences, the test encourages students to explore various sectors, from sustainable agriculture practices to advancements in healthcare technologies and educational tools. The focus on community-oriented projects ensures that participants not only learn valuable skills but also contribute positively to the society around them.

The consortium partners, including DreamOval Foundation, are committed to providing continuous support and resources throughout the test. Workshops and mentorshipPrince Baffour Asamoah/Peace FM Newsroom