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March 13th, 2025 — 30 young students participated in the Robotics and Virtual Reality Bootcamp at Patfield Educational Complex. The one-day bootcamp is part of the Young and Safe initiative, aimed to equip young people with practical STEM skills, inspiring them to explore technology-driven careers.
Joana Kwame, the MEL Officer of the project, welcomed the students with her opening remarks. She introduced the participating students to the Young and Safe project and the bootcamp’s mission to prepare a young generation for the opportunities in STEM Education, particularly robotics and virtual reality.
The first session for the day was led by Felix Sam Nanor, an AI and Machine Learning expert, at Node Eight. He introduced students to the components of robotics, tracing its origins and advancements to its role in modern industries like healthcare, automotive manufacturing, and space exploration.
The students realized that robotics was not just a concept but a vital part of their present world, one that they could explore, understand, and even contribute to.
Hands-On Practical: Traffic Light
With the foundations laid, the students participated in a practical session to understand the science and the technology behind traffic light systems. They examined the key components that make traffic signals function, learning about circuits, sensors, and the logic that ensures smooth and safe movement on the roads.
“I never knew that is how the traffic light systems work,” Jessica Youngs reflected.
Through this session, the students were not just learning about robotics; they were also gaining insights into problem-solving and technological innovation.
The Virtual Reality Experience
The students were super excited when it was time to jump into Virtual Reality. They were introduced to core VR components, including headsets, motion sensors, and interactive controllers.
For many, this was their first time experiencing VR. Jusel Selikem, one of the students, shared his excitement:
“Virtual reality takes you to another world—it takes you to space! You actually feel like you’re there. It’s really exciting.”
Some students found themselves in spacecraft, while others explored high-speed Hyper Dash VR games. This experience opened their minds to the endless possibilities of technology.
The Robotics and Virtual Reality Bootcamp at Patfield Educational Complex was a day that ignited a passion for innovation. For many, this was their first time interacting with robotics and virtual reality. The boot camp has instilled in them a newfound curiosity, a desire to innovate, and a vision of the endless possibilities that technology holds.
About the Young and Safe Project:
The Young and Safe project is a three-year initiative that aims to address key issues such as youth participation in city governance, sexual and reproductive health, mental health support, creative self-expression, and digital employment opportunities. The initiative aims to develop an inclusive and supportive community for young people in Ho, Volta region, Ghana by leveraging the capabilities of each partner. The Young and Safe project will also increase young people’s employability by helping them build their digital innovation and entrepreneurship competencies. Read more.
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