A team of research students from Sunyani Technical University (STU) recently visited the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) to obtain technical knowledge on ship identification and vessel tracking systems. This visit is part of their preparations for the International Inter-University Project Contest on Maritime Drone Identification Systems, organised by the Russian University of Transport (RUT). The competition challenges universities to develop innovative solutions that enhance maritime security and automation through advanced drone identification technologies.
The global competition aims to promote the development of cutting-edge technologies in maritime security and automation. Participating universities are expected to develop solutions that can detect and track Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The STU team is seeking to make a strong impression in the competition and bring honour to their institution and Ghana.
During the visit, the Acting Head of Public Relations of the GMA, Susie Afua Kotoku, and the Acting Director of Administration, Ayisha Abdul-Salam, welcomed the team and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity. They urged the students to strive to excel in the competition and bring recognition to themselves, their institution, and Ghana.
The Head of the Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) Unit at the GMA, Augustine Chongeterah, provided the students with in-depth insights into the operations of the Vessel Traffic Management Information System. He also educated the team on vessel construction processes and broader maritime activities within Ghana's maritime domain. The students gained a deeper understanding of the practical applications of maritime technologies.
The students were further introduced to live vessel monitoring through the Automatic Identification System (AIS) and briefed on emerging advancements in underwater sensing technologies. This hands-on industry exposure is expected to support the student team in developing a prototype identification system capable of detecting and tracking USVs, UUVs, and UAVs.
The Head of the Department of Civil Engineering at STU, Dr Stephen Agyemang, expressed appreciation to the GMA for the sensitisation programme. He noted that the knowledge gained would strengthen the students' project work and expressed confidence in their ability to excel in the competition and make both Ghana and Africa proud on the international stage.
The visit demonstrates the commitment of STU to providing its students with practical industry experience and preparing them for real-world challenges. The International Inter-University Project Contest on Maritime Drone Identification Systems is a significant opportunity for Ghanaian students to showcase their skills and expertise on the global stage.
Key points
- Students from Sunyani Technical University visited the Ghana Maritime Authority to gain knowledge on ship identification and vessel tracking systems.
- The visit is part of preparations for the International Inter-University Project Contest on Maritime Drone Identification Systems.
- The competition aims to promote the development of cutting-edge technologies in maritime security and automation.
