Ghana students develop AI-powered dialysis safety device

ACCRA, Ghana (MNTV) — A team of junior high school students from Ghana’s Ashanti Region has won the grand prize at the 2026 Ghana Science and Tech Explorer Prize after developing an artificial intelligence-powered device designed to improve patient safety during kidney dialysis.

The team, known as NextGen Coders from Swift Academy, impressed judges with a prototype that monitors dialysis procedures by detecting blood leaks and air bubbles in the system. When a potential hazard is identified, the device automatically stops the dialysis process and activates an alarm, helping reduce the risk of complications.

The innovation was recognized during the national science competition, which brings together students from across Ghana to showcase practical solutions to real-world challenges through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Judges praised the project for combining artificial intelligence with healthcare to address a critical medical need. The students said they were inspired to create the device after learning about the risks faced by dialysis patients and sought to develop a solution that could improve treatment safety.

The competition featured a wide range of student-led projects focused on healthcare, environmental sustainability, robotics and digital technology, reflecting Ghana’s growing emphasis on innovation and STEM education.

Education officials said initiatives like the Ghana Science and Tech Explorer Prize encourage young people to develop practical solutions that can contribute to national development while preparing them for careers in science and technology.

The victory highlights the increasing role of youth innovation in Ghana as schools continue to promote hands-on learning and problem-solving to address local and global challenges.