Connect with us

Julian Bennett 1Dr. Julian Bennett of the All Nations University (ANU) College in Koforidua, Ghana, and his team will be sending a piece of Ghana to Space by way of the CubeSat launch into orbit April 2017. Interest in Space program keeps climbing on the African continent. For instance, have you heard of the teenage girls from Cape Town in South Africa working to launch a private satellite? Well, in May 2017, this private satellite would be launched. Sounds exciting? Yep! Back to Dr. Julian Bennett whose recent work has gotten me even more excited. The CubeSat from Ghana by Dr. Bennett will be on board the next Falcon 9, scheduled to launch into space on April 9, 2017, to join the International Space Station. From there the CubeSat will be deployed on its mission.

The ANU team at Kyutech in Japan making Ghana proud
The previous sentence is compressed a whole lot, however, I met up with Dr. Bennett of the ANU where I discovered he leads the team responsible for engineering the CubeSat, with amazing support from, Benjamin Bonsu, Ernest Matey, Joseph Quansah, and Aaron Yankey – all also of ANU.
Oh what’s all this CubeSat thing am excited about? Well a CubeSat is a type of miniaturized satellite for space research. It is usually no more than 1.33 kilograms per unit in mass and often built with commercial off-the-shelf components for their electronics and structure, so there you have it, now you know.
Meet the man behind all this – Julian Bennett – an aerospace engineer and lecturer at the ANU. The doctor’s (PhD) knowledge and experience in the field made him a great asset as its lead. He was also nice enough to share his insights and experiences with me for our audience at TheAfricanDream.net so we could bring it to you, yes you reading now from wherever in the world…
For those that will want to listen to this whole story via audio, please checkout Khophi’s Dev Radio March 19, 2017, edition for the detailed interview with Julian on the subject of the upcoming launch.
Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is where Julian acquired his degree in Electrical Engineering from. He then obtained a Masters in Aerospace Engineering from the Brunel University of London. Today he is lead for the Space Science Technology Laboratory project of the ANU where he has been working with talented and dedicated students over the past 2 years to make the upcoming launch mission a reality.

Julian Bennett and the CubeSat

The All Nations University from Ghana, joined hands with Nigeria, Bangladesh, Mongolia and Japan to make this endeavor a reality by coming together on the “BIRDS Project“. The CubeSat is currently in the hands of the JAXA (Japan’s version of NASA), where much testing will be done before it is eventually handed over to NASA to be put on board the upcoming Falcon 9 launch and then into space. To help bring some of the engineers on board, the ANU Space program teamed up to speed this space ambition. As a result the hardwroking and fortunate individuals of the team we trained through this collaboration. Space-related stuff isn’t that simple and involves research, trials, testing, re-testing and dedication. The fact that many of these team members used to be students of the ANU, but decided to cling onto the project to see it eventually become a reality is such a remarkable thing in my opinion. Their dedication is a clear sign of how their love for Space has evolved so much that it is about to put Ghana on the world space map once again, and very soon too.

The All Nations University & Space

Over the years, the ANU team working on this project, comprising of students from literally ‘All’ nations, has spent tens of thousands of dollars on research and engineering into their space program.
Before Julian joined a couple of years ago, All Nations University had embarked on the launch of the CanSat back in 2013 which you can checkout in this YouTube video https://youtu.be/TVv6_6_g5DU
This experiment caught the attention of both scientific bodies and media houses alike. The experience at the time was indeed a motivating factor both for students and lecturers involved in the space program at ANU, encouraging them to keep pushing. And push they did! As a result, all things being equal, come April 9, 2017, if nothing happens to abort mission just 13 seconds into launch as was SpaceX’s second launch attempt from one of NASA’s launch pads in February 2017, then Dr. Julian Bennett, his crew from ANU and all their other partners will successfully launch a piece of Ghana into orbit. As someone who witnessed the recent Falcon 9 launch, I can’t wait to hear about the success of the CubeSat. In other Ghana space related issues, the Ghanaian authorities will by 2020 launch their very first satellite called “Ghanasat 1” into orbit. The project is managed by the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute and the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC). Editor’s note: #TheAfricanDreamLLC is excited about this story by Rexford Nkansah, a Senior Web Developer and host of Khophi’s Dev Radio. Rexford is also our head tech reporter at TheAfricanDream.net. Don’t forget to listen to his chat with Dr. Julian Bennett for the exciting audio version of this story. Source: written by Rexford Nkansah and edited by Oral Ofori READ ALSO: From Italy to Ghana..all you need to know about Menaye Donkor’s passion for giving READ ALSO: Global business leader, Tony Elumelu inspires Ghanaian youths with Africapitalism]]>

Advertisement

People & Lifestyle

Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra

Published

on

1 2

Caradise Ghana Car Rental has once again successfully facilitated the transportation of over 240 participants from 60 countries across the globe for the recently ended Global Christian Forum in Accra, Ghana.

Numerous buses hauled the various participants from the Airport to their designated hotels from the 12th to 15th of April, 2024. Participants were then transported from their hotels to the conference grounds daily for the gathering of devoted Christians from the 16th to the 19th of April, 2024.

The forum began with a vibrant, joyful worship service held at Accra Ridge Church. The Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah welcomed participants to Ghana and to the Fourth Global Gathering, and participants spent the day sharing their faith stories with one another across the litany of differences represented. 

The forum was climaxed with a dinner and 25th anniversary celebration at the Action Chapel Internation Church hosted by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams.

After the forum, the participants took the opportunity to visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum where they learnt about the great Pan-Africanist, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Ghana’s journey to inpendence.

Advertisement

The participants also spent a day in Cape Coast where they learnt about the millions of enslaved, dehumanised African men, women, and children at the Cape Coast Castle. Witnessing first hand how Africans were forcibly taken captive to the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe as objects of lucrative trade.

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2

 

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

DJ Khaled Announces Second Annual We The Best Foundation Golf Classic On June 12 & 13 in Miami Beach !

Published

on

unnamed 3

GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled proudly announces the return of his annual WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC for the second year in a row.

For 2024, the mega-popular charity event expands to two days on Wednesday June 12 and Thursday June 13 in Miami, FL. Given the demand by countless superstar artists, A-list athletes, and entertainers to participate, he needed to stretch the proceedings over two days!

Once again, the event will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, and all proceeds support the We The Best Foundationand its numerous efforts to bolster education. Stay tuned for the multitude of exciting confirmed guests, and more.

Khaled created a cultural groundswell and personally appeared on ESPN’s SPORTSCENTER to break the news of the second installment of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC today. Watch HERE.

Regarding the return of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC, he commented, “Last year, the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC brought out so many friends and family to make a difference, play some great golf, and have an incredible day for a great cause. This year, we’re going even bigger, and we thank everyone for their continued support. TEE UP AND BLESS UP!”

Advertisement

Last year, the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC hosted Serena Williams, pro golfers Michael Block and Bubba Watson, Odell Beckham, JR., Shannon Sharpe, Victor Cruz, Jalen Rose, Terrell Owens, Marcus Jordan, Jeezy, Quavo, The-Dream, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Fat Joe, Cedric The Entertainer, Joey Fatone, and more. The foundation raised over $500,000 which benefited the enrichment of children and youth through educational programming, scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

More guests and partners for 2024 will be unveiled soon.

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

Ghanaian activist hugs over 1,100 trees in an hour to set record

Published

on

Abubakar hugging a tree and smiling tcm25 768954

An environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana has set a new world record for the most trees hugged in one hour. (more…)

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

BEING A JUDGE FOR THE MODEL INTERNATIONAL IS A BIG PORTFOLIO – EX MP BARBARA AYISI ASHER

Published

on

Honorable Barbara Asher Ayisi

Former Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North constituency in the Central Region, Barbara Ayisi Asher, took on the prestigious role of judging the Cape Coast Audition for The Model International, adding yet another feather to her cap of accomplishments. Not only did she oversee the audition, but she also secured her place as a guest judge on the show itself, solidifying her position as not just a politician but a prominent figure in the world of fashion and entertainment.

The Cape Coast Audition, which served as a gateway for aspiring models in the region, marked the beginning of an exciting journey towards discovering West Africa’s next top talents in modeling. However, the spotlight now shifts to the bustling city of Accra, where the next round of auditions is set to take place.

Scheduled for Saturday, the 4th of May 2024, the Accra audition will be hosted at the prestigious Gold Coast Restaurant, conveniently located near Rockstone’s Office, Cantonments. Doors will open at 10 am, welcoming female West Africans between the ages of 18-26, residing or schooling in Ghana, to showcase their flair and passion for the runway, the camera and the screens.

Registration for the audition comes at a nominal fee of GHS100.00, providing participants with a chance to compete for the coveted title of The Model International, mouth-watering contracts and $2000.00 cash prize. To secure a spot in the audition line-up, aspiring models can register online at www.themodelinternational.com/register or seek assistance by contacting Esther, via call or WhatsApp on +233 50 890 6222.

The Model International promises to be a spectacle of talent, elegance, and glamour, captivating audiences across the nation. Set to premiere on Metro TV from the 1st of June 2024, viewers can tune in every Saturday at 8 pm to witness the unfolding drama and excitement of the competition.

Advertisement

As the anticipation mounts and the countdown to the grand premiere begins, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey towards declaring the next face of West African modelling and fashion. With Barbara Ayisi Asher involved, The Model International is poised to redefine standards of cat walking with grace, elegance in front of the camera and shaping the future of the fashion industry one runway at a time.

Watch Video below

 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6OPjrVNN6C/?igsh=MW55ZWt4YXFkOXNyaQ==

 

Advertisement
Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

African Development Bank appoints Ambassador Jalel Trabelsi as Special Envoy for Middle East and North Africa and Gulf Region

Published

on

8dc15c2c9647e4c

The President of the African Development Bank Group Dr. Akinwumi Adesina  has appointed career diplomat Ambassador Jalel Trabelsi as his Special Envoy for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Region.

Ambassador Trabelsi brings to the role over 30 years of experience as a highly accomplished and distinguished diplomat.

As Special Envoy for MENA and the Gulf Region, Ambassador Trabelsi will help to foster diplomatic and strategic engagements within the MENA and Gulf Region, focusing on the Bank’s strategic priorities, strengthening partnerships and mobilizing public and private sector resources at scale to deliver transformational projects in Africa.

A Tunisian citizen, Ambassador Trabelsi’s diplomatic career is marked by significant roles and contributions. He served as Minister Plenipotentiary for African Affairs, and was the Ambassador of Tunisia to Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, and the Economic Community of West Africa (Ecowas). He also served as the Dean of the Council of Arab Ambassadors and in other roles as an Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Head of the National Commission for Tunisia’s candidacy to the Presidency of the African Development Bank.

He is also a specialist in international law and taught Diplomatic International Law at university level.

Advertisement

Ambassador Trabelsi holds an Advanced Master in Maritime and Aviation Law from Belgium’s Université Libre de Bruxelles, where he undertook his undergraduate degree in political science and international relations and passed with the highest honors. He also holds a Master’s degree in political science from the University of Tunis. He is multilingual with fluency in English, French, and Arabic.

Commenting on his appointment, Ambassador Trabelsi said: “I am extremely honoured to be appointed by Dr. Adesina to this role. As an African, I am motivated to continue to serve our continent and to contribute to the African Development Bank’s transformational work under the visionary leadership of Dr. Adesina. I will work to ensure the Bank maintains and further strengthens its excellent and fruitful cooperation and partnership with Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Region.”

Dr. Adesina said: “I am delighted to have Ambassador Trabelsi as my Special Envoy for a region that holds a lot of promise for the Bank’s and Africa’s economic transformation. He has a strong track record and expertise in international relations and cooperation as well as international negotiation. He brings extensive knowledge in African, Arab, and European affairs and a deep understanding of the activities of the Bank, as well as other regional and international financial banking institutions.”

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

KFC Ghana Introduces the “Streetwise Wings Meal” for ONLY GH¢30, KFC will also Embark on Donating 500 Streetwise Wing Meals Every Month to Basic Schools!

Published

on

Streetwise Wings Meal

KFC Ghana is excited to announce the latest addition to their Streetwise menu: the “Streetwise Wings Meal.” This new offering is a perfect blend of KFC’s signature crispy wings paired with a side of delightfully spicy rice, all for an affordable price of GH¢ 30.

The “Streetwise Wings Meal” is a flavorful adventure meant to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. The meal consists of three juicy and perfectly fried chicken wings, coated in KFC’s famous blend of herbs and spices. To complement the crispy wings, the meal includes a generous serving of spicy rice—a hearty side that packs a punch and ensures a fulfilling dining experience.

“KFC Ghana is always looking for ways to deliver value and satisfaction to our customers,” said the Digital and E-commerce Manager of KFC Ghana. “We believe that the Streetwise Wings Meal does just that, providing a balanced and flavorful meal at a price point that is accessible for everyone. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a delicious dinner on the go.”

The Streetwise Wings Meal is now available for order through the KFC Ghana App, with options for delivery, in-store pickup, or dine-in. The App is designed to provide the utmost convenience for customers, allowing for seamless ordering and payment. You can download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and get your meal with just a few taps on your smartphone.500 Donation of Streetwise Wings Meal

KFC assures that all meals are prepared following the highest standards of quality and hygiene, ensuring that customers not only get a delicious meal but also a safe one.

So, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, the new Streetwise Wings Meal is here to make your day a little more flavorful. Head to the nearest KFC or get the app now to enjoy this spicy new treat!

Advertisement

In addition to offering the delectable “Streetwise Wings Meal,” KFC Ghana is expanding its community support by announcing a generous donation campaign and will be donating 500 Streetwise Wing Meals at selected basic schools every month across the country. This initiative invites customers or social media users to nominate a school for a chance to enjoy this amazing offer, illustrating KFC Ghana’s commitment to giving back to the community. With the addition of this charitable action, KFC Ghana reinforces its reputation as a brand that not only provides value through its meals but also invests in the welfare of its community and its employees. Updates will be communicated via KFC Ghana’s social media platforms. Don’t forget to follow the social media pages and nominate a school!

Facebook: KFC Ghana

Instagram: @KFCGhana

X: @KFC_Ghana

TikTok: @KFC_Ghana 

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending