Juneteenth STEM Event Bridges Diaspora and Ghanaian Youth Through Innovation

 

By Akutu Dede Adimer

In a lively celebration of heritage, innovation, and empowerment, the African-American Association of Ghana (AAAG) partnered with the African STEM Academy to mark Juneteenth by inspiring Ghanaian students through science, technology, and cultural connection.

Juneteenth, honouring the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their emancipation, was used not only as a moment of remembrance but as a call to invest in future generations through education.

“This day is about empowerment,” said Tamika Atubga, AAAG’s Sergeant-at-Arms. “Just as freedom came through knowledge back then, today we aim to empower young minds with the tools of STEM, that’s science, technology, engineering, and math, so they can build their own future.”

Held at a school supported by AAAG and collaborators including the African STEM Academy, Hope Approach NGO, and 40 Acres and Family, the event combined historical reflection with practical learning. Highlights included a student-led STEM showcase featuring balloon-powered car races, applying Newton’s Third Law and coding exercises simulating traffic light systems.

The hands-on coding activities were made possible through technology donations from Jack and Jill, a U.S.-based organization. “These are real-world skills,” Atubga added. “We’re showing them that their ideas have power.”

Josh Fennybell, Assistant Coordinator of the African STEM Academy, underscored the impact of diaspora engagement: “When students meet people from the diaspora, it builds their confidence and exposes them to global opportunities. Events like this teach them teamwork, discipline, and that effort leads to results.”

This Juneteenth initiative is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the bond between the African diaspora and local communities. Through support from African Roots Travel, diaspora volunteers regularly visit, mentor, and donate educational resources.

The students themselves embraced the moment. “Today was fun and amazing,” said Edmond Yati, a 13-year-old seventh grader. “We learned, we raced cars, and we showed the visitors our projects. I’m really grateful they came.”

The day also emphasized sustainable development and gender inclusion, with Hope Approach NGO delivering messages about education as a path to lifelong self-reliance. “HOPE means Help Our People Eat, not just food, but knowledge that nourishes future generations,” Atubga explained.

This Juneteenth celebration became more than just a commemoration, it was a bridge between past and future, culture and technology, Ghana and the diaspora. For many of the young participants, it opened the door to a future filled with possibility.