My Journey Through the AFS Global STEM Accelerators Program: May–August 2024 Cohort
From May to August, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the AFS Global STEM Accelerators program. This online exchange program focused on STEM, sustainability, and social impact. Out of over 1,000 highly qualified applicants worldwide, I was honoured to be selected as one of the 180 participants.
This program brought together young women aged 15 to 17 from across the globe, creating a truly diverse and inspiring community. The learning experience was transformative, covering self-discovery, understanding others, and realizing my role as a global citizen. The program was deeply impactful, and I encourage my peers to explore this opportunity (https://afs.org/global-stem/accelerators/).
What I Learned
Throughout the program, weekly modules on self-discovery, communication skills, global issues, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) helped me see my responsibilities both within my community and as part of a global society. Over the three months, I grew to appreciate the diversity of cultures, languages, perspectives, and the unique challenges people face around the world.
Before this experience, I was aware of global issues, but I lacked the motivation to act. Now, I am more determined than ever to become a change-maker.
My Project: Tackling Food Waste
As the program progressed, I chose to focus on a significant but often overlooked issue: food waste. Did you know that throwing away a burger wastes as much water as taking a 90-minute shower? Food waste is a major contributor to climate change, yet it receives little attention. Addressing it could significantly advance SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
My project aims to collect food waste from schools and restaurants to produce compost, starting with my school, International Community School, and expanding to other institutions in my community. My goals are to:
- Utilize food waste in Ghana effectively.
- Reduce carbon emissions by enhancing plant growth.
- Raise awareness about the impact of improper food waste disposal.
Hands-On Experience
During the program, I prototyped my idea at the Soil and Environmental Research Centre of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission under the guidance of Dr. Samuel Nettey. This hands-on training provided me with in-depth knowledge of composting processes.
Compost-Making Process
- Sorting Food Waste: Food waste is separated into oily and non-oily categories. Oil can create leachates harmful to soil and aquatic life, so it is extracted for reuse as mechanical lubricants.
- Dehydration: The “greens” (food waste) are dehydrated to a moisture content of 40–45%.
- Mixing: The greens are mixed with “browns” (e.g., sawdust, corn husks), which provide carbon and absorb moisture, adding structure to the compost pile.
- Maturation: The compost is heaped into a cone shape to optimize microbial activity. Water is sprinkled weekly to maintain a moisture content of 60–65%.
- Temperature Monitoring: Daily temperature checks (32–60°C) ensure ideal conditions for microbial activity.
I plan to expand my research by exploring compost from different food waste sources, such as fruits and vegetables. My goal is to develop compost that improves backyard vegetable yields and helps reduce carbon emissions.
Gratitude and Reflections
The AFS Global STEM Accelerators program was an enriching blend of academic activities, friendships, and fun. I am incredibly grateful to have been part of this journey, which brought me closer to becoming a change-maker.
Special thanks to Dr. Millicent Togo for introducing me to the program and to Dr. S. Nettey and Dr. Joyce Agyei-Amponsah for their invaluable support.
About the Author
Akosua Oseiwaa Agyei-Amponash
International Community School (ICS)
Year 11 Flax
