Obuasi SHTS Students Create Solar-Powered Dialysis Machine Prototype, Seek Funding for Commercialization

A team of innovative students from Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS) has developed a groundbreaking solar-powered dialysis machine aimed at addressing the critical shortage of dialysis equipment in Ghana. This prototype, created by a group of science students, is designed to offer a cost-effective and sustainable solution to patients suffering from kidney failure, particularly in underserved areas with unreliable power supply.

In an interview with JoyNews, Serwaa Ankasa Abena Acheampong, one of the student leaders behind the project, explained the function and design of the dialysis machine. She highlighted that the machine is built to filter toxic substances such as urea, excess salt, and other harmful minerals from the blood of patients whose kidneys are no longer functioning properly. Operating on the principles of diffusion and osmosis, the machine purifies contaminated blood in a dialyzer, which is then returned to the patient over a continuous four-hour cycle.

The team incorporated locally sourced materials, along with key components purchased from suppliers, including blood pressure sensors, electrocardiogram equipment, and solar panels. This integration of solar power ensures that the dialysis machine can operate seamlessly even during power outages, which are common in many parts of Ghana. This key feature of the machine is aimed at providing reliable treatment for patients, regardless of electricity availability in their localities.

Another team member, Priscilla Sampama, shared additional insights into the advanced features of the dialysis machine. According to Sampama, the device is equipped with built-in sensors to monitor vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and blood flow rate. The machine also features an automatic adjustment system, as well as visual alarms to alert healthcare providers in case of any abnormal readings or deviations during the dialysis treatment.

Although the students have made significant progress, they noted that the prototype still requires further refinement before it can be brought to market. One of the main areas that need improvement is the peristaltic pump, which is responsible for pumping blood through the dialysis system. The current model needs to be upgraded to ensure it can effectively trap air bubbles, which can be harmful to patients if they enter the bloodstream. “There are several modifications we still need to make, particularly to the pump, which needs to be more robust. Air bubbles in the bloodstream can cause serious harm, so this is one of our main focuses,” Serwaa explained.

The inspiration for developing this machine stemmed from the students’ awareness of the challenges faced by kidney patients in Ghana. They learned about the critical shortage of dialysis machines at major healthcare facilities such as Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where patients face high costs for treatment and limited access to equipment. This issue is exacerbated in rural areas where there is little to no access to electricity, making dialysis treatment even more difficult to receive.

“Our goal is to make dialysis more affordable and accessible, especially in rural areas where people struggle to get proper healthcare services,” said one of the team members. The students believe that, with the right support and funding, their solar-powered dialysis machine could be refined and ready for use in hospitals and clinics across Ghana in the next two to five years.

The students are now seeking funding and partnerships to help further develop their prototype and bring it to market. They estimate that with sufficient investment, they can enhance the machine’s functionality and scalability to meet the needs of hospitals and patients nationwide. “We believe that with the right resources and guidance, this project can truly make a difference in healthcare delivery in Ghana,” the team members said.

The solar-powered dialysis machine was recently showcased at the PRIMETIME Sci-Tech Innovation Exhibition in Accra, where it received attention from various stakeholders in the healthcare and technology sectors. The students hope that their invention will inspire further innovation in Ghana’s healthcare sector and contribute to addressing some of the pressing challenges in kidney disease treatment. With the right support, the project has the potential to revolutionize dialysis care in Ghana and beyond.