UMaT Students Unveil Locally-Built Drones as AngloGold Ashanti Launches Smart Systems Centre in Tarkwa

Students at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) have successfully developed two functional drones using locally sourced materials, marking a significant milestone for Ghana's technological landscape. This achievement was part of the pilot phase for the newly launched Smart Systems Centre in Tarkwa, an initiative supported by AngloGold Ashanti. The facility is designed to serve as a hub for local technology development, with a primary focus on allowing Ghana to process sensitive mining and telecommunications data within its borders rather than relying on foreign infrastructure.

During the unveiling, Professor Grace Ofori-Sarpong Akuffo emphasized the strategic importance of domestic data management. By keeping data within Ghana, the mining industry and telecommunications sectors can streamline their processing workflows and significantly reduce operational costs. The drones built by the students are intended to demonstrate how indigenous innovation can meet the specific needs of the extractive industry, providing a cost-effective alternative to imported surveillance and mapping equipment.

Beyond drone technology, the Smart Systems Centre houses a digital equipment fabrication unit dedicated to manufacturing local electronic components. This broader commitment to innovation was further evidenced by another student group which developed a prototype sanitary pad vending machine. These diverse projects highlight the centre's mission to foster a culture of problem-solving and manufacturing that extends beyond the mining sector into everyday social and commercial applications.

The successful launch of these projects underscores the potential of Ghanaian youth when provided with state-of-the-art resources and institutional support. As the Smart Systems Centre moves beyond its pilot phase, it is expected to play a critical role in positioning UMaT and the Tarkwa region as a leader in technical education and industrial innovation. The initiative not only enhances Ghana’s digital sovereignty but also ensures that the next generation of engineers is equipped to handle the complexities of a modern, data-driven global economy.