Damongo Senior High School has been crowned the winner of the 2025 Savannah Regional edition of the Senior High School Renewable Energy Challenge. The competition, held at Damongo Senior High School, brought together five senior high schools from across the region, showcasing innovative projects that harness the power of renewable energy to address pressing environmental issues.
The theme of this year’s challenge, “Sustainable Energy for a Healthier Future,” inspired students to develop practical solutions to challenges in food security, waste management, and healthcare. Damongo SHS distinguished itself with a project titled “Recycling Technology for a Sustainable Future,” an innovative method designed to minimize waste sent to landfills and recover valuable materials from waste within the environment.
The project earned Damongo SHS a total of 73.7 points, securing their position as Savannah Regional Champions and qualifying them to represent the region at the zonal level of the national Renewable Energy Challenge. Bole Senior High School emerged as the first runner-up with 71.3 points, followed closely by Sawla SHS with 71 points. Salaga TI Ahmadiya Senior High School and Buipe Technical Institute secured fourth and fifth positions with 66 and 60 points, respectively.
“We are thrilled and proud to have won this competition,” said one of the students from Damongo SHS. “Our project, ‘Recycling Technology for a Sustainable Future,’ was chosen because we recognized the need to address the pressing issue of waste management in our environment. We believe that our innovative approach can make a significant impact in reducing waste and promoting sustainability.”
The students expressed their gratitude to their coaches, fellow students, and the entire school for their unwavering support. “We couldn’t have achieved this without the guidance and encouragement of our coaches and teachers,” they added. “We’re optimistic that we’ll excel in the next stage and look forward to showcasing our skills and creativity on a larger platform. We’re confident that our project will inspire others to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future.”
Mr. Julius Nkansah Nyarko, Senior Manager of Renewable Energy Regulation and project coordinator, delivered a welcome address, emphasizing the importance of innovation and sustainability in addressing environmental issues. “The Renewable Energy Challenge is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for Ghanaian youth to showcase their talents, creativity, and commitment to sustainability,” he said.
“We’re proud of the students for their dedication and innovative spirit. As they move forward to the next stage, we encourage them to remain focused, determined, and passionate about creating a sustainable future for our nation.”
Mr. Nyarko highlighted the challenge’s origins and its growth into a national initiative, involving numerous schools across Ghana. “The program aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry needs, fostering practical skills and innovation among Ghanaian youth,” he explained. “We’re committed to supporting and promoting renewable energy innovation among Ghanaian youth, and we’re excited to see the impact that these young innovators will make in the years to come.”
The Renewable Energy Challenge, now in its sixth year, continues to play a vital role in fostering innovation, environmental awareness, and technical skills among Ghanaian youth. The competition contributes to the broader goal of achieving a sustainable energy future for the nation. As the students celebrated their achievements, Mr. Nyarko encouraged them to embrace the challenge with enthusiasm and determination, emphasizing the transformative power of their ideas.
The challenges faced by the students were not insignificant, but their determination and creativity paid off. The victory of Damongo Senior High School is a testament to the potential of young Ghanaians to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges. As they prepare to represent the Savannah region at the zonal level, the school’s students and mentors are filled with excitement and anticipation.
The Renewable Energy Challenge serves as a platform for Ghanaian youth to showcase their talents, creativity, and commitment to sustainability. As the nation continues to strive for a greener and more sustainable future, initiatives like the Renewable Energy Challenge will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of environmental leaders and innovators.
