Ananse AI, a startup by young innovators from KNUST's Department of Computer Engineering, has made strides.
The team clinched the top spot in a competition organised by the Africa Health Collaborative KNUST in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. Their health business idea earned them $15,000, part of a broader $150,000 funding pool for 15 promising startups.
The team, mentored by Dr. Henry Nunoo-Mensah, a senior lecturer at the Department of Computer Engineering and advisor to the startup, comprises Nana Akosua Addipa (third-year computer engineering student), Kobi Ampem Afriyie (second-year computer engineering student), Ameyaw Samuel Arthur, and Kwadwo Pobi Anning (both MPhil computer engineering students). Their innovation has set a benchmark for health-related tech startups.
The team presented the cheque to the Head of the Computer Engineering Department, Professor Emmanuel Kofi Akowuah and shared their journey.
Dr. Nunoo-Mensah explained the background of the competition. "The team competed in the Mastercard Foundation Africa Health Collaborative competition. They pitched their solution, won, and received $15,000. This company is not to be disbanded but to grow into something impactful." he said,
Professor Akowuah praised the students and encouraged them to keep pushing forward. "You have made the department proud. We hope this is just the beginning. With hard work, you can achieve even greater things. Your success is an example to others." he said.
The health solution Ananse AI presents uses artificial intelligence to assist in diagnosing medical conditions. The technology can process medical images, such as MRI and CT scans, and provide informed diagnoses. The app also allows conversion between medical images, helping healthcare professionals make decisions faster.
Team member Ameyaw Samuel Arthur explained their innovation. "We built a model that uses AI to process medical images. For example, an MRI image is analysed, and the system diagnoses based on the data. It also converts between MRI and CT images," he said. The team shared that the idea started months ago during their coursework. They wanted to solve real problems in healthcare using their skills.
Professor Akowuah reminded the team of the importance of scaling their business.
"This $15,000 is just the beginning. Use it wisely to build something lasting. Register your business, set up structures, and seek more funding," he said.
The team said they are now working on registering their company and finalising the grant process. They plan to use the funds to develop their business further and bring it to market.
Dr. Nunoo-Mensah commended the team for their commitment. "This success shows what is possible when young people work together. We hope more students will follow this example," he said.
The students expressed their gratitude for the support they received from their department and advisors. They said they are motivated to keep working hard and to make an impact in healthcare. With the right support and resources, they can solve pressing societal problems.
