UMaT Students Showcase Locally-Built Drones at Launch of AngloGold Ashanti Smart Systems Centre

Students at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) have achieved a significant technological milestone by developing two functional drones using locally sourced materials. The unveiling took place during the pilot phase of the newly launched Smart Systems Centre in Tarkwa, an initiative spearheaded by mining giant AngloGold Ashanti. This facility is designed to serve as a hub for advanced technological development, specifically focusing on the needs of Ghana’s mining and telecommunications industries while fostering a culture of innovation among engineering students.

The establishment of the Smart Systems Centre marks a strategic shift toward domestic data sovereignty and industrial efficiency. Professor Grace Ofori-Sarpong Akuffo emphasized that the facility enables Ghana to process sensitive mining and telecommunications data locally rather than exporting it to foreign jurisdictions for analysis. By keeping this data within the country, the mining sector expects to see streamlined processing workflows and a significant reduction in operational costs. The drones themselves are intended to demonstrate how local expertise can replace expensive imported technology for site monitoring and data collection.

Beyond aerial technology, the center houses a specialized digital equipment fabrication unit dedicated to manufacturing local electronic components. This move aims to reduce the country’s reliance on imported spare parts and hardware, which often face supply chain delays. The versatility of the student body was further showcased by the development of a prototype sanitary pad vending machine, illustrating that the center’s impact extends into social interventions and diversified engineering solutions. These projects collectively highlight the readiness of Ghanaian youth to solve practical local problems when provided with modern infrastructure and industry support.

The success of these initial projects underscores the transformative potential of industry-academia partnerships in Ghana. By providing youth with the necessary resources and a platform like the Smart Systems Centre, UMaT and AngloGold Ashanti are positioning the country as a burgeoning hub for tech innovation in West Africa. As the center moves past its pilot phase, it is expected to play a crucial role in training the next generation of engineers and ensuring that Ghana remains competitive in the global digital economy.