Forty-two semi-finalists from the Ashanti Region have been inducted into the 2025 edition of the Ghana Science and Technology Explorer Prize (GSTEP) challenge.

The GSTEP is an annual science and technology challenge exploring the creativity and ingenuity of basic school pupils in proffering pragmatic solutions to societal problems.

As part of additions for this year’s edition, the semi-finalists are expected to commence a mini-prototype of their projects ahead of their pitches to qualify as one of 15 teams to represent the Ashanti region at the grand finale.

In the last three years, the Ghana Tech and Science Explorer Prize (GSTEP) challenge has empowered young people to harness their practical experiences to impact their communities positively.

This year’s edition is taking a unique approach with hands-on activities like building structures, pitching ideas and early distribution of technical tools to aid the development of a prototype.

These exercises aim to sharpen the participants’ technical, business, and presentation skills.

Founder of GSTEP, Constance Agyemang, emphasized the program’s mission to nurture the creativity and problem-solving skills of young minds, while equipping them with practical experiences and teamwork abilities.

“The goal is to bring children together to celebrate their success as semifinalists and to prepare them for the journey ahead,” Ms. Agyemang stated.

She highlighted the unique workshops and learning opportunities the students would engage in, including the Synergy Safari, a team-building exercise designed to teach participants how to work collaboratively, resolve conflicts, and unite behind a shared vision to turn their ideas into reality.

“GSTEP continues to serve as a beacon for nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers in Ghana, inspiring them to build a brighter future through science, technology, and collaboration,” she noted.

Deputy Ashanti Regional Director of Education, Thomas Kwame Boateng, highlighted the transformative role of the GSTEP in equipping students with essential skills for the 21st century, particularly in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Mr. Boateng emphasized that the program empowers students to translate their learning into practical applications.

He noted that beyond acquiring knowledge, students are developing collaborative skills, learning to work effectively in teams, and appreciating individual differences.

These competencies, he said, are crucial in fostering a collaborative educational system in the country, where teamwork takes priority over isolated learning.

“A student alone cannot do everything. Knowledge isn’t in one man’s head. The GSTEP challenge aligns with the goals of STEM education by building critical skills that prepare students for the future,” he stated.

Susanna Hausmann, Cities Portfolio Lead for Fondation Botnar - funders for the challenge - believes in the untapped potential of students and young innovators, emphasizing that they can drive meaningful change when given the right platform.

“GSTEP is one such initiative that provides this platform, enabling youth to learn, create, and grow. It’s not about the process, it’s about the change,” she stated, highlighting the program’s mission to make a tangible difference in the lives of young individuals.

Ms. Hausmann highlighted reasons the Fondation Botnar continued its investment into pupils in Ghana stressing the country had immense potential and a vibrant population of young people eager to contribute to global progress.

“The reason we chose Ghana at this time is because of its potential and the energy of its youth,” she said.

In addition to the 42 semifinalists from Ashanti, the program will ultimately select 15 teams from each participating region to advance as finalists.

The event was not only a platform for the young innovators but also for their teachers, coaches, mentors, and STEM coordinators who fostered a supportive environment for the participants to thrive