04/14/2023
Ashesi D: Lab Innovation Expo Ep 2: Celebrating Innovation and Creativity to Encourage More
Exhibition Session: One of the projects that was on display at the D :Lab Expo 2.0: a prototype of the Health Kiosk
The Ashesi D: Lab Innovation Expo 2.0, held on the 14th of April 2023 was a stunning display of innovation, creativity and problem-solving. The event showcased the brilliant minds and innovations of Ashesi University students, who have been working intensely over the spring semester to develop groundbreaking projects that proffer unconventional solutions to real-world challenges. With an array of projects ranging from technology to healthcare and sustainability, from education to tourism, business and transportation, the Innovation Expo 2.0 was a testament to Ashesi and the D:Lab’s longstanding commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving within the Ashesi community and beyond.
Conference Session: One of the project teams presenting their project prototype that was on display at the D: Lab Expo 2.0 to panel of judges and audience
The fair was a two-phase event that kicked off with a conference where team leads presented their projects. A total of 21 teams presented their ground breaking solutions to a panel of judges and a teaming audience. It was not just an opportunity for each team to showcase their progress and the innovations that had set them apart from the rest, but also a moment of truth for the teams as they shared their progress, challenges, and potential impact. The second phase of the event was the exhibition where project teams displayed and showcased their projects, MVPs, and prototypes. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the teams, ask questions, and get a closer look at the solutions presented in order to get inspired. The fair invited volunteers, vendors, faculty, staff, groups, associations and members of the Ashesi community and beyond, creating a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration, learning, and celebration of innovation and creativity to encourage more. In this blog post, take a deep dive into the event, exploring the exciting ideas, projects and prototypes on display, and celebrating the incredible work of the students and faculty who made it all possible. Get ready for an inspiring journey into the future of innovation!
Conference Session: Patience Derry’24 presenting one of the projects that was on display at the D: Lab Expo 2.0 to panel of judges and audience
The anticipation was high as the clock struck 9:30am, marking the beginning of first phase of the Ashesi D: Lab Projects Exhibition Fair. The atmosphere was electric as students, faculty, judges and guests gathered in anticipation of the innovation and creativity that lay ahead. The D:Lab coordinator, Mr. Wanye, opened the program with a rousing speech, setting the stage for what was to come. With an infectious enthusiasm, he explained the purpose of the event and the layout of the program. The excitement continued as each team took the stage to present their groundbreaking projects. Each presentation was a culmination of weeks of hard work, dedication, and passion, with teams showcasing their unique approaches to solving complex problems. They were given five minutes to present their work, followed by a riveting three-minute question-and-answer session. Once the presentations had concluded, the exhibition kicked off, with each team displaying a physical and or digital representation of their incredible work. Attendees were invited to get up close and personal with each project, observing the intricate details and asking personal questions of the teams who had poured their hearts and souls into bringing these ideas to life. The energy was infectious, with a buzz of excitement permeating the air as each team proudly displayed their innovations to the world.
Conference Session: The Ecomaze Pad team presenting their solution and Design Thinking journey to a panel of judges and audience at the Ashesi D: Lab Innovation Expo 2.0
As indicated, a total of 21 projects across several industries were presented during the Innovation Expo 2.0. The judges had their work cut out for them, as the projects on display spanned several industries and SDGs, from healthcare to technology. The Health Kiosk, Poverty Pads, and Machine Learning Recommender Systems projects stood out as the undeniable winners in their respective categories. The Health Kiosk project triumphed in the Improved Access category, while Poverty Pads excelled in the Local Fabrication and Cheaper Alternatives category. The Machine Learning Recommender Systems project claimed victory in the Systems/Process Enhancements category. The judges were deeply impressed by the teams' remarkable ingenuity and practical applications showcased throughout their projects. In recognition of their exceptional efforts, these teams were rewarded with amazing souvenirs that served as tangible symbols of their outstanding achievements.The GIJ, Tungaane, and Flood Project teams, recognized for their unwavering commitment and outstanding engagement from start to finish, received meaningful mementos that encapsulated their remarkable achievements. These souvenirs serve as tokens of recognition, reminding them of their triumphs and inspiring continued innovation and problem-solving. The competition was fierce, but the Class of 2025 stood tall, emerging as the most engaging and active year group at the fair. Their enthusiasm and passion for innovation were visible, and it was clear that they were the most engaging and active year group at this year’s edition of the Innovation Expo. Overall, the Innovation Expo 2.0 was a resounding success, showcasing the boundless potential of the Ashesi D: Lab and its students. The exhibition was a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, and it left no doubt that the future is indeed bright.
Exhibition Session: On display at the D: Lab Expo 2.0 was some Physical Prototypes