A Ghanaian mechanical engineer is breaking new ground with her research on optimised desiccant systems powered by machine learning, a technology aimed at improving energy efficiency and driving low-carbon growth across tropical and developing economies.
The engineer, Jael Yankson Ofori, who is currently pursuing a doctorate in Mechanical Engineering at the Federal University of Fluminense (UFF) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and artificial intelligence to design humidity-control systems that minimise energy consumption and promote climate-resilient infrastructure.
Her research contributes directly to global decarbonisation efforts, aligning with the priorities of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13, which promote affordable clean energy and climate action.
“My goal is to make scientific innovation accessible,” she said.
“I want to design low-cost, sustainable technologies that can help African and tropical nations to achieve energy independence while protecting the environment,” she added.
Along with her growing profile in Science development in Brazil, she has been featured in a Brazilian magazine, Do Sonho à Realidade, projecting her rise from a humble setting to academic stardom.
Ms Yankson Ofori holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from UFF and a Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering from the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR).
Her Master’s thesis on Numerical Analysis of Heat and Mass Transfer in Solid Desiccant Systems established her as an emerging expert in thermal sciences and renewable energy systems.
In addition to her research, Ms Yankson Ofori has shown a passion for education and inclusion.
She volunteers as a mentor for RITA Africa’s Women in Tech programme, guiding young African women into careers in science and engineering.
She also serves as the President of the National Union of Ghanaian Students and Associates in Brazil (NUGSA-Brazil), where she leads initiatives promoting academic success and social integration among Ghanaian migrants.
Her academic excellence has earned her several competitive awards, including the Brazilian National Petroleum Agency Research Grant (PRH-ANP) and recognition as an Outstanding Student at the 2024 Python Bootcamp in Accra.
Through her work, Ms Yankson Ofori represents the growing influence of African scientists shaping a sustainable and innovative global future.
Secondary education
Ms Yankson Ofori’s academic journey is an intriguing one, typified by the uncommon transitioning from an Arts student to a Science innovator.
She studied Visual Arts at the West African Senior High School in Accra, completing her secondary education in 2013.
She subsequently earned a scholarship to pursue a university degree in Textile Engineering in Brazil, upon which she completed the full switch to Mechanical Engineering for her Master’s programme.
