Empower Playgrounds, a non-profit organization committed to enhancing education in rural and off-grid communities, and the Center for School and Community Science and Technology Studies (SACOST) under the Institute for Educational Research and Innovation Studies (IERIS) at the University of Education, Winneba, have entered into a strategic partnership to promote science learning and data-driven interventions in under-resourced communities in Ghana.
The partnership, signed on Thursday, May 15, 2025, between the two entities, aims to enhance educational outcomes through the deployment of innovative electricity-generating playground equipment and lighting solutions. This initiative will support STEM education with hands-on science kits and resources in selected schools. Additionally, the partnership will refine Empower Playgrounds’ data collection tools to better assess and monitor program impact and identify targeted communities in the country and beyond that lack access to electricity.
The initiative will also enhance SACOST’s ability to conduct community-based research.
Mr. Isaac Darko-Mensah, Country Director of Empower Playgrounds, expressed his excitement about the partnership, highlighting the significance of community empowerment through access to electricity.
He mentioned that both parties would collaborate effectively to ensure successful implementation of the targeted objectives across the country.
“This partnership marks a significant step towards promoting science learning and enhancing educational access in rural communities”. He stated.
Empower Playgrounds has over the years continued to impact education through student empowerment.
In attendance at the brief ceremony were dignitaries from the center including Prof Daniel Yelkpieri, Deputy Director, IERIS, and some members from Empower Playgrounds.