Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Apaak asserts that STEM education should be regarded as a fundamental necessity and a powerful equaliser, providing all children with critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for community contribution.
He made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the Ghana Science and Tech Explorer Prize (GSTEP) Exhibition and Awards Ceremony at the National Theatre on July 17, 2025.
Dr Apaak believes that through STEM, students, especially those in deprived areas, can design innovations that help solve challenges confronting society.
He argued that this transformative potential is precisely what the Ghana Science & Tech Explorer Prize (GSTEP) is actively bringing to life across the nation.
The GSTEP Challenge, a flagship initiative, is igniting curiosity and fostering creativity among Junior High School (JHS) students in the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Ashanti regions.
Dr Apaak observed that a comprehensive programme of mentorship, coaching, and hands-on support empowers young participants to develop practical solutions to real-world challenges.
GSTEP participants are demonstrating ingenuity beyond their age, designing sustainable water purification systems and innovative traffic control prototypes, noted the Deputy Minister and Builsa South MP.
He assured that the government will continue to integrate practical STEM components—like those championed in GSTEP—into the national curriculum, ensuring learning is not confined to theory but grounded in real-world impact.
He also reiterated the commitment of the government in investing in the professional development of teachers so they will guide students towards innovation.
“Teacher Empowerment: Teachers are the heart of this transformation. We will invest heavily in continuous professional development to ensure our educators are equipped to mentor and guide students toward innovation.”
He commended the organisers and pledged government support for their activities.
“To the GSTEP team—thank you for being pioneers in this movement. Your efforts are a vital part of our national strategy. You have demonstrated that when you place tools and trust in the hands of our youth, they can build a better Ghana.”
“The Ministry reaffirms its support for the GSTEP Challenge and similar initiatives that empower youth, reduce inequality, and bring education to life. Together, we will ensure that every Ghanaian child—no matter their location—has the chance to dream, to build, and to lead.”
He further congratulated the students for the hard work they put into their work, describing their innovations as remarkable.
“To the students, what you have done here is remarkable, but it is only the beginning. You have proven that you can imagine solutions. Now go out and make them real. Build. Test. Fail. Learn. And build again. Ghana needs your ideas, your courage, and your commitment.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
