In a groundbreaking achievement, Nii Ofori-Quaye, a Ghanaian student at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) in Moscow, Russia, has carved his name in history by becoming the first non-European to secure the first place in the prestigious 71st edition of the Science and Innovation Awards. The competition attracted over 100 projects from students across diverse disciplines and nations.
Ofori-Quaye’s winning project centred on customer relations management, leveraging artificial intelligence and data analysis to elevate customer satisfaction and loyalty. Motivated by his experiences as both a customer and a business owner running a small online shop specializing in Ghanaian products, he aimed to revolutionize how businesses connect with customers, providing personalized solutions.
Expressing his surprise and honour at clinching the top spot, Ofori-Quaye described the contest as a challenging yet rewarding experience. The competition was fierce, with students presenting innovative projects spanning renewable energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology, robotics, and aerospace engineering. He emphasized the valuable lessons learned, not only in science and innovation but also in teamwork, communication, and presentation skills.
Ofori-Quaye aspires to be an inspiration to fellow Ghanaian students, urging them to pursue their dreams and passions in the fields of science and technology. Studying in Russia for four years, he expressed pride in representing his country and culture on the international stage. His focus remains on furthering his education and research in customer relations management, with a long-term vision of establishing a company offering innovative solutions for businesses.
In a heartfelt acknowledgment, Ofori-Quaye extended gratitude to God for the opportunity and bestowed talent. He thanked his family, friends, teachers, mentors, and sponsors for their unwavering support and encouragement. Dedicated to the Ghanaian students making a positive impact worldwide, he dedicated his award to their collective dedication and efforts.
The Ghanaian community in Russia celebrated Ofori-Quaye’s achievement, and the Ghanaian Embassy in Moscow issued a statement commending his outstanding performance. The statement also lauded NUST for providing quality education and fostering international collaboration in science and technology.
Nii Ofori-Quaye’s groundbreaking accomplishment not only places him on a pedestal of innovation but also amplifies the potential of students from underrepresented regions in global academic arenas. His journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scientists and technologists, exemplifying the impact of dedication, passion, and the pursuit of knowledge.
