The grand finale of the Tɛkyerɛma Pa Hackathon showcased innovative AI solutions aimed at breaking communication barriers for individuals with speech impairments. Held under the Tɛkyerɛma Pa Project, a collaboration between the University of Ghana and University College London through the AT2030 programme (funded by UKAid), the event featured diverse participants including students, researchers, and accessibility advocates.
Kasa Noma from the University of Environment and Sustainable Development won the top prize of $2,500 for their inclusive communication tool in local languages. Whisperwave placed second ($1,500), and Twilight from UG placed third ($1,000). Other teams included Kasayie (KNUST) and YADAH (UENR).
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo praised the initiative for addressing stigma and promoting inclusive technology. Minister of Communications, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, described the AI tools as “restorative technologies” and donated GHS 20,000 to support the top three teams.
Prof. Isaac Wiafe, lead investigator, emphasized the development of Akan-based speech recognition to aid communication for persons with disabilities. Prof. Ebenezer Owusu, Head of UG’s Computer Science Department, noted the university’s growing focus on AI and inclusive tech.
The hackathon builds on broader initiatives like UGSpeechdata, Google’s Project Euphonia, and the Global Disability Innovation Hub, all committed to digital inclusion.
Source:http://ug.edu.gh/news/student-team-wins-top-innovation-prize-tekyerema-pa-hackathon-ai-solution-supporting-speech
Kasa Noma from the University of Environment and Sustainable Development won the top prize of $2,500 for their inclusive communication tool in local languages. Whisperwave placed second ($1,500), and Twilight from UG placed third ($1,000). Other teams included Kasayie (KNUST) and YADAH (UENR).
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo praised the initiative for addressing stigma and promoting inclusive technology. Minister of Communications, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, described the AI tools as “restorative technologies” and donated GHS 20,000 to support the top three teams.
Prof. Isaac Wiafe, lead investigator, emphasized the development of Akan-based speech recognition to aid communication for persons with disabilities. Prof. Ebenezer Owusu, Head of UG’s Computer Science Department, noted the university’s growing focus on AI and inclusive tech.
The hackathon builds on broader initiatives like UGSpeechdata, Google’s Project Euphonia, and the Global Disability Innovation Hub, all committed to digital inclusion.
Source:http://ug.edu.gh/news/student-team-wins-top-innovation-prize-tekyerema-pa-hackathon-ai-solution-supporting-speech