Mechatronics Curriculum Development In An Emerging Economy– The Case Of The Knust, Ghana.

Abstract

The intent of this article is to review progressin mechatronics course developmentat the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana,in light of global developments.Mechatronics synergistically combines knowledge from mechanical engineering, electrical and electronics engineering, and computer science to design modern products and systems. Over the past two decades ithas gained prominence in the educational and industrial sectors of many countries, and many universities have introduced mechatronics engineering at the undergraduate studies level. The primary disciplines involved in the design of mechatronic systems include mechanics, electronics, controls, and computer science. In this paper the authors review mechatronics course development in the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. An extensive literature review is carried out, and the course structure at the KNUST is compared with mechatronics curricula in several foreign universities. Student and faculty mechatronics projects are then reviewed. The comparisons reveal that even though the KNUST experience is fairly new, on module by module basis it compares well with at least one foreign university. Another key finding is that there is a fast growing interest in mechatronics studies in Ghana, and through student projects the students learn to analyze existing technology, understand system functionality and then design and build fully functioning mechatronics systems.  A natural outcome and recommendation of the study is that any local mechatronics programme such as the one at the KNUST must establish strong ties with local industries while seeking cooperation with global partner universities in order to make up for problems such as lack of research funds and other opportunities.

 Keywords: Mechatronics, course, development, Ghana