The Dean of the School of Computing and Information Sciences at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS), Professor Edward Y. Baagyere, has emphasized the need for greater emphasis on science and technology from the earliest stages of education. He believes this will support the development of the Upper East Region. Prof. Baagyere made these comments during a discussion on A1 Radio on the topic "The Future of Science and Technology Education in the Upper East Region: The Role of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences."
Prof. Baagyere stated that interest in science should be cultivated among children from early years of schooling. He argued that science should be made practical and attractive to learners. According to him, teachers and the education system have a critical role in making science appealing to students. He suggested that greater use of practical experiments could help children understand how scientific concepts apply to everyday life.
The UTAS Dean noted that inadequate exposure to science at early stages of education could affect students' willingness and ability to pursue science-related programs and careers later. He stressed that the way science is introduced and taught could play a role in encouraging more children, including girls, to develop an interest in the field. Prof. Baagyere recalled his experience as a General Science student, where science classes were dominated by boys.
Prof. Baagyere pointed to countries such as Japan, China, South Korea, and Rwanda as examples of places where science and technology have featured prominently in development strategies. He believes the Upper East Region must similarly develop a culture where young people see science and technology as tools for solving problems. This, he argues, will help build a generation of scientists and technology innovators capable of developing solutions to challenges confronting the region.
The discussion comes as UTAS highlights its progress in teaching, learning, research, and community service during its six years of existence. The university has achieved notable success, including winning the National ENACTUS Competition four consecutive times from 2021 to 2024. UTAS represented Ghana on the global stage, reaching the round of 16 in competitions held in the Netherlands and Kazakhstan.
UTAS has also been ranked 10th in Ghana in 2025 based on its H-Index in the AD Scientific Index global ranking of higher education institutions. The university maintained that position in 2026 before moving to 8th in the 2027 ranking. Prof. Baagyere believes these developments must be matched with stronger efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists and technology innovators.
Prof. Baagyere's call for early science education emphasizes the need for a strong foundation in science and technology to drive development in the Upper East Region. He urged stakeholders to work together to make science education more appealing and accessible to students. The UTAS Dean's comments have sparked a renewed discussion on the importance of science education in the region.
Key points
- Prof. Baagyere calls for early science education to drive Upper East development.
- UTAS highlights its progress in teaching, learning, research, and community service.
- The university has achieved notable success in national and global competitions.
