Ghanata SHS wins STEM ideathon Challenge on Air Pollution

Ghanata Senior High School (SHS) has emerged victorious in the inaugural Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Ideathon Challenge on Air Pollution, organized by the Breathe Accra Project for Senior High Schools.

The competition showcased innovative solutions proposed by various schools to combat air pollution, with Ghanata SHS leading the pack.

Bole SHS secured the 1st runner-up position, while Twene-Amanfo SHS and Ghana National College claimed the second and third runner-up positions, respectively, with Kpasenkye STEM placing fourth.

Bole SHS proposed converting waste papers into ethanol to address waste disposal challenges and reduce air pollution caused by burning paper waste. Ghanata SHS presented the idea of building wearable monitors to alert individuals sensitive to air pollution, such as asthmatics, about hazardous environments. Additionally, they outlined plans to mitigate air pollution through the construction of Biochar and electrostatic exhaust filters for vehicles.

Twene-Amanfo SHS proposed equipping billboards with electrostatic precipitators to combat air pollution, targeting areas with high exposure rates, especially among vulnerable populations like women and children. Ghana National College focused on developing wearable and portable sensors using e-waste materials, promoting sustainability and affordability in sensor production.

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After rigorous evaluation, Ghanata SHS emerged as the winner with an impressive score of 84.4 points. Bole SHS and Twene Amanfo SHS shared the second position, with Ghana National College and Kpasenkpe STEM SHS securing the fourth and fifth positions, respectively.

To break the tie between Bole SHS and Twene Amanfo SHS, both schools participated in a community engagement quiz, with Bole SHS securing the first runner-up position and Twene Amanfo SHS becoming the second runner-up.

The competition highlighted the commitment of participating schools to address air quality challenges, with Ghanata SHS recognized for its outstanding performance and innovative solution. Each participating school received a certificate of participation, and the first and second runners-up were awarded plaques along with a cash prize of GHS 1000 each. Ghanata SHS, the winner, received a plaque and a cash prize of GHS 2000.

After the contest, Prof. Kofi Amegah, the Project lead for the Breathe Accra Project, emphasized the importance of innovative solutions and adequate funding to address air pollution. Miss Emily Fertik, the Head of Public Diplomacy at the US Embassy in Ghana, reaffirmed the US commitment to supporting air quality initiatives in Africa.

The Breathe Accra Project aims to enhance air quality in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) and address the impact of air pollution on public health, targeting vulnerable populations for intervention.

Overall, the STEM Ideathon Challenge on Air Pollution demonstrated the power of young minds in addressing environmental challenges through innovative STEM solutions, with Ghanata SHS leading the way towards a cleaner and healthier environment.

Ghanata Senior High School, a distinguished boarding institution, finds its roots in the vision of Rev. E. Osabutey Aguedze, who established it in 1936 as the Gold Coast People College in Adidome, Volta region, Ghana. Over time, it transitioned to its current locale in Dodowa, Greater Accra Region, where it erected its enduring campus. The institution’s guiding principle, encapsulated in its motto “Carpe Diem,” encourages students to seize the day and maximize their present opportunities.