Three day IEEE R8 ASYP congress ends

By Francis Cofie

The three- day Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Region 8 Africa Student and Young Professionals (ASYP) Congress to provide professional mentorship and training to students and young professionals through interactive sessions on Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics ( STEM) has ended at the University of Professional Studies( UPSA) in Accra.

It was organized by the IEEE Ghana section  on the theme “ empowering Africa’s future leaders through STEM”.

The congress which brought together about 200 participants from various tertiary institutions across the country also drew experts from the USA and Europe

The event opened with workshops, training 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 involved 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.

In his address, the Deputy Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Mohammed Adam Sukparu 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 this congress, IEEE is helping to cultivate a generation of engineers, scientists and leaders who would redefine Africa’s future.

Around the globe, he said, 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 said.

The Minister said cyber security and the Internet of Things(IOT) are 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”, he said.

He reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment 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, policy – makers and change-makers who would define continent’s destiny through the power of STEM”, he mentioned

In an address, the 2025 IEEE President and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Kathleen Kramer said one of the major aims of 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.

Professor Kramer indicated that, STEM education was crucial not only to solving today’s challenges in society but also preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.

In an address, Dr.Antonio Luque, IEEE Membership Geographic Activities Vice President said IEEE mission is to foster technological advancement for the benefit of humanity.

He said the goal of IEEE is to promote and establish contact with the activities of the base level that touch lives and experiences of many people

He disclosed that, IEEE  was able to organize events in so many places globally at the same time in view of its huge 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 insightful with remarkable 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.

In a closing remark at the end of the  session, the IEEE Ghana Section Chair, Engr.Mensah Sitti 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 learning from one another and highlight Africa’s growing influence in STEM.

There was STEM exhibitions and awards were given to the committee that organized the programme drawn from students and young professionals across participating tertiary institutions.

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