RAIL Robotics Club Launched at Afia Kobi Ampem Senior High School

The Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) inaugurated the Afia Kobi Ampem Senior High School (SHS) Chapter of the RAIL Robotics Initiative on January 13th, 2025. The event was organised by RAIL’s Women in Technology team to inspire and educate students about artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, focusing on responsible and ethical use of technology.

Group photograph after the meeting with management

The RAIL team paid a courtesy call to the school’s headmistress, Mrs. Emelia Ameflu-Denutsui and discussed the initiative’s objectives. She expressed her passion for STEM and mentioned that the school needs more support regarding resource persons to handle STEM activities. Dr Mrs Eunice Akyereko Adjei, RAIL’s Women in Technology Officer, noted the need for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise the club’s operations. She also announced plans for a RAIL Robotics Challenge with certifications and awards for participants.

Mrs. Emelia Ameflu-Denutsui, Headmistress of St. Louis SHS, delivered a welcome address.

During the inauguration ceremony, Mrs. Emelia Ameflu-Denutsui, Headmistress of St. Louis SHS, said the world is changing and the youth should abreast themselves with technological advancement. “We shouldn’t be left out in the world filled with innovations and technological advancement, and as young girls, we shouldn’t be left behind,” she stated.

She entreated the students to give their maximum attention and learn from the presentations of the RAIL team.

Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Principal Investigator and Scientific Director, RAIL

Speaking at the inauguration, Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Principal Investigator and Scientific Director of RAIL, emphasised the potential of AI to transform jobs and create new opportunities. He reiterated RAIL’s mission to bridge the digital skills gap, empower females in the digital space, and leverage AI to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He called for the support of school management, teachers, and students in achieving this vision.

Dr. Mrs. Eunice Akyereko Adjei, RAIL’s Women in Technology Officer, presented on AI and ethics.

Dr. Mrs. Eunice Akyereko Adjei, RAIL’s Women in Technology Officer, introduced students to the fundamentals of AI, its applications, and ethical considerations. She also explored career opportunities in AI and the everyday impact of the technology.

Dr. Mrs. Martina Francisca Baidoo, RAIL Women in Technology Theme Fellow, provided insights into the admission process and academic programs at KNUST, encouraging students to pursue higher education at the university.

Dr. Kwame Oteng Gyasi took mentors through a practical session.

Dr. Kwame Oteng Gyasi, a Lecturer at the Department of Telecommunications Engineering and a RAIL Women in Technology Theme Fellow, led training on Lego robotics for club mentors. He demonstrated how Lego robotics can simulate human-like sensing, processing, and actions, showcasing its potential for creative experimentation through block coding.