The ‘Spotlight session with trailblazing Scientists,’ which kicked off the NEF’s weeklong celebration was organised in partnership with WeGo Innovate, Academic City and Ghana STEM Network. Together, the team brought together three crack academic researchers of repute including Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, University of Ghana and the National Science and Maths Quiz mistress, Dr Michael Osae from the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), and Dr Peace Amoatey, University of Ghana.

The in-person and virtual audiences were treated to cutting edge research presentations by Dr Amoatey who commenced speaking on ‘Waste Water Treatment for Irrigation’, highlighting the danger of bacteria and metal contamination of vegetables and water bodies, and proposing treatment using sand filters.

Dr Michael Osae gave a fascinating presentation that explored bioengineering in the insect world focusing on a case study of the Black soldier fly which has inspired the production of animal feed, and organic fertilisers while also highlighting untapped opportunities and potentials in the field.

Prof. Effah Kaufmann gave a lecture on demystifying Ghana’s National Maths and Science Quiz, noting its objectives and history from 1993, the challenging years, and its evolution to the present competition a lot of people have come to love.

The panel fielded questions from the audience during the mentoring session bothering on the individuals who inspired them to take science seriously, dealing with setbacks, how scientific studies could be converted to solving real-life problems, and how females can survive the male-dominated science field.

Prof. Kaufmann advised the young scientists to prioritise their activities to achieve their aims in life by keeping their eyes fixed on the goal they set for themselves.

“Spend less time focusing on things that are not important. Prioritise and don't pay too much attention to things that don't matter. Solicit understanding and help from your family to achieve your aims. Help them (family) and do your best for them but by so doing, they will also not disturb you when you really need it.”

Dr Amoatey, who is also a leakage management expert, said her dream is to see the Odaw river cleared of all its filth. “My dream is to see the Odaw river completely clean. Engineering is not the solution. It is down to the behaviour of people. My dream is to be able to have a leakage system at Ghana Water Company to safeguard water management from the early stage to response, right to the end.

On his part, Dr Osae stressed the need for scientists to find a way of monetising their research findings so it becomes easier for entrepreneurs to partner with them.

The final scope at the spotlight session saw project presentations and exhibitions by some students from Academic City, Blue Crest and OpenLabs. Further, the Ghana STEM Network Team was also launched, coupled with STEM exhibitions from IoT Network Hub.