From Proverbs to Progress: Transforming Engineering Pedagogy
In the pursuit of enriching engineering education, Professor Kwadwo Osseo-Asare (KOA) has embarked on a transformative journey that intertwines traditional wisdom with modern academia. Through a unique approach utilizing African proverbs, KOA has successfully promoted conceptual learning and creativity in materials science and engineering, and now extends this methodology to the realm of biomedical engineering in collaboration with Prof. Elsie Kaufman of the University of Ghana.
MPhil students who were participants in the “proverbs in biomedical engineering project” in 2019; Prof. Kaufman is in the middle
Professor Ojumu is in the center, the Vice-Chancellor (President) is to his right.
Poster for one of the two other lectures KOA’s presented in addition to his responder talk
Fostering Global Connections:
KOA’s dedication to advancing engineering education transcends borders. In August 2019, he made history at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in South Africa as the first overseas Responder to Prof. Tunde Ojumu’s Inaugural Lecture in the Department of Chemical Engineering. This marked a significant milestone for the university and exemplified the power of global collaboration in academia.
A Gift to Ghana:
Demonstrating a commitment to his homeland, KOA, alongside a group of Ghanaian engineers in the diaspora, presented a collection of valuable books to the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana. This gesture exemplifies his belief in the importance of nurturing the next generation of engineers within the African context.
KOA presenting several books to the School of Engineering Sciences, University of Ghana
Pioneering Afrocentric Engineering – Aheshi University
At Ashesi University, KOA embarked on a mission to redefine engineering education through Afrocentric principles. In his presentation, “Zewuze torkornu wokpoe le – The bigger of two pots can only be determined at the riverside: : Rethinking engineering education in Africa,” he emphasized the significance of solving local problems as a gateway to offering solutions on a global scale.. He also noted, “This means that you’re not always trying to solve other people’s problems elsewhere, but those within your own environment. I guarantee you that every time you solve a problem arriving from the African context you’re solving a problem that is of interest to the rest of the world. Once you solve that local problem, you gain a solution for the whole world.” This perspective not only empowers students but also positions Africa at the forefront of engineering innovation.
Prof. KOA presentation to the pioneering engineering students of Ashesi University
Group picture with the first batch of Ashesi engineering students (2016)
KOA’s impact on engineering education extends beyond lectures and presentations. He played a pivotal role in the development of Ashesi University’s inaugural Introduction to Engineering course, leaving an indelible mark on the first batch of engineering students.
At Ashesi University, KOA had the privilege of engaging with a diverse cohort of international students enrolled in the Introduction to Engineering course. This experience highlighted the universality of engineering principles and the potential for collaborative problem-solving across borders.
At Aheshi, Prof. KOA’s commitment to knowledge dissemination is exemplified by his presentation to leaders of the Private Universities Students Association during his tenure at Ashesi University. Collaborating with Professor Michael Robinson, he shared valuable insights, transcending geographical boundaries through an enlightening YouTube video.
KOA at lunch with some of the international students in the Intro to Engineering course.
Intro to Engineering Course YouTube Video
Sharing Knowledge in Zimbabwe
In June 2018, Prof. Kwadwo Osseo-Asare extended his expertise to the University of Zimbabwe, conducting a specialized course on Chemical Principles in Hydrometallurgy for industry professionals. This educational endeavor not only showcased his proficiency but also emphasized the pivotal role of industry-academia partnerships in propelling technological progress.
Furthermore, Prof. Francis Gudyanga, former Permanent Secretary of the Zimbabwe Ministry of Mines, spearheaded the establishment of the Pan African Minerals University of Science and Technology (PAMUST) in 2016. PAMUST, an ambitious venture endorsed by the Zimbabwe Parliament, aimed to become an international hub for earth resource studies. During the inauguration ceremony of Nelson Mandela AIST in Arusha, Tanzania, Prof. Gudyanga led a Zimbabwean delegation in discussions about PAMUST’s affiliation with the Nelson Mandela group of universities. In the photograph, Prof. Gudyanga is distinguished by his red tie, while KOA is seated to his right. This collaboration heralded a promising era for knowledge exchange and regional advancement in earth sciences.
The attendees, mostly from the industry
Prof. Gudyanga is in the red tie and KOA is seated to his right
Professor Kwadwo Osseo-Asare’s tireless efforts in revolutionizing engineering education stand as a testament to the power of blending traditional wisdom with contemporary pedagogy. Through the integration of African proverbs and collaborative initiatives, KOA has not only enriched the educational experiences of students but has also positioned Africa as a focal point for engineering innovation with global relevance. His legacy serves as an inspiration for educators and students alike, demonstrating the boundless potential that lies within the intersection of tradition and modernity in academia.