Ghanaian students develop breakthrough water purification technology to tackle galamsey pollution

A team of students from Bosomtwe STEM Academy in the Ashanti region has invented a prototype water treatment plant capable of removing heavy metals from galamsey-polluted water, making it safe for human consumption.

The innovation was demonstrated at the launch of the "Inventors Playground" initiative, a platform empowering students to develop innovative solutions using AI, Robotics, and emerging technologies. Four Ashanti region schools participated in the initial cohort.

According to Kwabena Amoani Odoom, team lead, the technology uses advanced filtration systems to purify contaminated water, effectively removing heavy metals.

With the prototype proven, the students are now seeking investment for commercialization to support government efforts in cleaning polluted water bodies.

Yakubu Fuseini, Executive Director of PAMEPI Women in Tech Ghana speaking to ModernGhana News, emphasized the importance of technological advancement in driving socio-economic progress.

He called on the private sector to support the agenda with financial investment, particularly in scaling up the inventions to make them relevant in solving societal problems.

Mrs. Mary Donkor, Headmistress of Bosomtwe Girls' STEM Senior High School, praised the "Inventors Playground" initiative as a key addition to the government's STEM policy. She described it as a relevant platform for unlocking students' creative and innovative abilities.

Other innovative technologies showcased at the event included an eco-friendly aviation residential estate prototype by students from St. George's Senior High Technical School.

The innovation is initiated by PAMEPI Women in Tech Ghana, a non-governmental organization in collaboration with Ministry of Education.