The Responsible AI Lab (RAIL) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) launched the RAIL Robotics Club Initiative to foster the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among students. On 27th September 2024, RAIL inaugurated the Mawuli School Chapter of this initiative in Ho. This effort was supported by the Old Mawuli School Union (OMSU) Executives, further strengthening the partnership for technological advancement.
In his welcome address, the Headmaster of Mawuli School, Mr. Benjamin Dei, emphasised the importance of embracing technology and innovation, describing the inauguration as a pivotal moment for the school. He stressed that students must harness AI, robotics, and automation skills, which are essential in today’s rapidly evolving world dominated by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He encouraged students to apply these skills to local problems in agriculture, healthcare, and sustainability, stating that the Robotics Club would equip them with problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking skills.
The President of the Old Mawuli School Union (OMSU), Mr. Richard Nyarko, expressed excitement about collaborating with RAIL, emphasising the transformative power of Robotics and AI. He urged students to embrace these opportunities to shape a future driven by innovation and positive societal impact.
Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Principal Investigator and Scientific Director of RAIL, joined virtually and provided an overview of the lab’s mission to promote the responsible use of AI in addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He introduced the RAIL key themes, which aim to equip students with the knowledge to develop AI-driven solutions for Africa.
Mr Makafui John Bedzra, Innovations Manager of the KNUST College of Engineering Innovation Center and an old student, explained the fundamentals of AI and Robotics, showcasing how AI allows computers to exhibit intelligent behaviour and how robots operate by receiving instructions from humans. His presentation included real-life applications and innovations in security, space exploration, healthcare, and agriculture.
Dr. Kingsford Sarkodie Obeng Kwakye, a Telecommunication Engineering lecturer and RAIL Fellow, addressed the ethical use of AI, stressing the importance of ensuring integrity and fairness in AI solutions while being mindful of their social impact.
The event concluded with a technical session for club members and mentors, led by Dr. Kingsford Sarkodie Obeng Kwakye, who provided hands-on training using the EV3 programming interface. Participants learned how robots process data from their environment and interact with it, with a focus on robotic sensors, actuators, and controllers. The session aimed to prepare students for practical robotics applications in various fields.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, and both parties agreed to work together towards the 75th anniversary celebration in a year. The OMSU President proposed a fully functioning AI and Robotics lab established in Mawuli School with support from other stakeholders. The RAIL team requested the full commitment and dedication of the mentors assigned to the Robotics Club, stressing the importance of continuity and sustained progress. They also encouraged the students to actively participate in developing innovative projects, with the expectation that their works would be showcased during the 75th-anniversary celebration in 2025.
