Students from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering of the Tamale Technical University (TaTU) have won second place at the Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition on Education and Skills Development (ARC-EDS) 2025, earning national recognition for their groundbreaking project. ARC-EDS is a prestigious regional event aimed at fostering innovation and showcasing practical solutions to African challenges.
The event, held from August 5-7, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre, saw Team TaTU compete with 17 other projects from universities nationwide. After a pitching of their innovative Solar-Powered Smart Open-Air Drying System, Team TaTU emerged victorious, impressing both the judges and the audience. This exhibition brought together top innovators from universities and technical institutions across the country.
The Solar-Powered Smart Open-Air Drying System is an intelligent device that automates the sun-drying process for crops like cocoa, grains, and cereals. The device is equipped with sensors that detect rain and pests in real-time and automatically triggers a weather-responsive roof to cover the crops when rain is imminent or activates a scarecrow to deter animals approaching the drying area. By using this device, farmers can save time and effort previously spent constantly monitoring their drying crops to drive away animals or protect them from rain.
Presenting the award to the vice chancellor, the team leader, Dr. Simon Atuah Asakipaam, highlighted the significance of the innovation, stating, “We believe that this device can help local farmers save time, energy, and money in drying their crops, as well as reduce post-harvest losses.” He further emphasized that the award was more than a trophy, as it served as proof that with the right support, TaTU students could compete and excel on both national and international platforms. Dr. Asakipaam appealed to the university, alumni, and other stakeholders to continue supporting innovation, creativity, and student-led projects, as this would help elevate the institution.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Bashiru Ibn Imoro Saeed, commended the students and lecturers for their outstanding effort in making the university proud as he received the trophy from the team. “You have not only showcased innovation but also demonstrated that our students can compete and excel on any platform,” he said. “We are proud of you and confident that this milestone will inspire others to aim higher.”
The second picture shows Team members of the Solar-Powered Smart Open-Air Drying System
The above picture shows team members presenting the award to the Vice Chancellor
