Specialists for sustainable industry in sub-Saharan Africa
ETH Zurich has set up a master's programme in mechatronics in collaboration with Ashesi University in Ghana. The first cohort of students is now graduating. The project aims to contribute to sustainable industrialisation in sub-Saharan Africa.
Many African countries are experiencing strong economic growth and rising population figures. Industry will develop strongly in the coming years, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Qualified engineers are needed to shape this development in a sustainable manner.
Together with Ashesi University in Accra, Ghana, ETH Zurich has therefore developed a new degree programme – Ashesi's first ever Master's degree programme. Specifically, ETH Zurich is supporting the Ghanaian university in setting up the Master's programme for the first five cohorts, after which it will be continued by Ashesi University.
First cohort celebrates graduation
At the beginning of June, the 23 students of the first cohort celebrated their master's degrees in mechatronics. The graduates come from Ghana, Tanzania, Cameroon, Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya. They began their studies in January 2022. Since then, three more cohorts have started their master's studies at Ashesi University. The last cohort of the partnership will start in January 2026.
The students are taught jointly by lecturers from ETH Zurich and Ashesi. The courses take place in blocks at Ashesi University, with ETH lecturers travelling to Accra in stages for around two weeks at a time.
Swiss industry contributed to the degree programme
In the Master's programme in Mechatronics, students acquire specialist knowledge in automation and energy technology, among other things, which is in high demand on the job market.
Industry partners such as ABB, Barry Callebaut, Bühler, HPW, LafargeHolcim, Nestlé and TetraPak have also contributed to the development of the degree programme. They offer students practical training on site and finance scholarships.