"Catch Them Young" Project - STEM Education

ASUSTEM ROBOTICS
CATCH THEM YOUNG PROJECT REPORT
2025

1. Introduction

The “Catch Them Young” initiative by Asustem Robotics continues to inspire and empower the next generation of Ghanaian innovators. Rooted in the belief that early exposure to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) is key to building a robust technology ecosystem, the project is designed to introduce children and young learners—especially in public and under-resourced schools—to foundational and advanced concepts in technology and engineering.

Since the start of 2025, the program has witnessed remarkable growth and reach, directly impacting learners across multiple regions of Ghana. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the project’s progress, key activities, achievements, and strategic outlook.

2. Project Reach and Impact 2.1 Direct School Impact

Over 550 students from public schools have been successfully trained under the Catch Them Young project since its most recent implementation phase. These students were taken through carefully structured sessions that fostered both technical skill and creativity.

2.2 Nationwide School Engagement via Telecel Digitech Academy

In collaboration with the Telecel Ghana Foundation through the Digitech Academy, the project extended its footprint to over 600 primary and junior high schools across the country. This nationwide extension helped to introduce digital skills to underserved communities, ensuring that basic computing and innovative thinking are no longer limited to urban schools.

2.3 New Training Centres

To facilitate deeper learning and continuous engagement, Asustem Robotics established new learning centers in Accra and Kumasi. These centers are now serving as hubs for future tech innovators, where learners are introduced to a range of STEAM modules with hands-on practical experience. The centers are equipped with modern tools, learning kits, and digital resources tailored to primary and junior high school learners.

3. Curriculum and Learning Modules

The Catch Them Young project implemented a diverse and interdisciplinary curriculum tailored to age-appropriate learning goals. Key modules delivered include:

• Robotics: Building and programming autonomous systems using beginner-friendly robotics kits.

• Website Development: Introduction to HTML, CSS, and basic design principles.

• Python Programming: Basic syntax, logic building, and problem-solving using Python.

• Engineering Design: Hands-on projects in structural design, mechanical thinking, and prototyping.

• Internet of Things (IoT): Introduction to smart devices and how they communicate using sensors and the internet.

• Electronics: Circuit design, breadboarding, and component functions.

• Creative Arts and Coding: Integrating artistic creativity with visual programming tools like Scratch to promote logical thinking through storytelling and animation.

The curriculum was designed not only to build technical skills but also to encourage teamwork, innovation, and confidence among young learners.

4. Organizational Growth and Human Capacity

In response to the program's expansion, Asustem Robotics recruited several new staff and volunteers across roles including:

• STEM facilitators and coding instructors

• Regional project coordinators

• Center managers and technical support personnel

• Curriculum development advisors

These team members were strategically onboarded to ensure program delivery was consistent, effective, and aligned with our educational values. The addition of new roles has also enhanced the organization’s ability to serve more regions and communities across Ghana.

5. Strategic Outlook and Next Steps

The success of the Catch Them Young project in its current scope has opened up new possibilities for national scale-up. Asustem Robotics is now focused on extending its impact through partnerships and infrastructure development.

5.1 Partnership Development

We are currently seeking partnerships with corporate bodies, technology firms, engineering companies, and development agencies to co-fund, resource, and support the next phase of the project. These partnerships will help us scale the initiative across more regions and improve access to equipment, internet, and learning kits.

5.2 Regional Training Hubs

As part of our expansion strategy, plans are underway to establish regional training hubs across five key cities in Ghana as part of Phase 1 of the national rollout. These cities/towns include:

• Tamale

• Tarkwa

• Sunyani

• Sefwi Wiawso

• Takoradi

These hubs will serve as both teacher training centers and direct learning facilities for students, creating a sustainable model for continuous STEAM education.

6. Conclusion

The Catch Them Young project stands as a transformative force in Ghana’s educational landscape. With over 550 direct beneficiaries, over 600 schools impacted, and new learning centers operational, Asustem Robotics is laying the foundation for a tech-driven future. The momentum gained thus far reinforces our belief in early tech exposure as a key lever for national development.

We look forward to working with government stakeholders, the private sector, and international partners to take this project to new heights and ensure no child is left behind in the digital revolution.