Maurya Education Limited, a leading force in Ghana’s educational innovation, has added a fresh chapter to its impact story by expanding this year’s UCMAS National Competition from two days to three. The decision, according to the organization, is part of a broader mission to give more Ghanaian children access to globally acclaimed programs that develop both brainpower and technological skills.
The UCMAS National Competition has long been one of the highlights of Ghana’s educational calendar, drawing students from across the country to showcase their skills in mental arithmetic, problem-solving, and quick thinking. By extending the event, Maurya Education has provided more opportunities for young participants to engage in a variety of activities beyond the core competition.
Managing Director Mr. Girish Gurbani, whose vision has guided the company for nearly two decades, explained the thinking behind this year’s extended program.
“This year’s event has been especially exciting,” he said. “By adding an extra day, we have given children more time to interact with peers from different parts of Ghana, participate in competitions, enjoy entertainment, and socialize. It’s been a truly wonderful experience for them.”
Beyond the competition, the event serves as a meeting ground for children from diverse backgrounds—urban and rural, private and public school—offering them a rare chance to share ideas, learn from each other, and make friends. It is, in many ways, a practical demonstration of Maurya Education’s core belief: that learning is not confined to classrooms but thrives in interactive, collaborative spaces.
At the heart of Maurya Education’s work in Ghana are two flagship programs—UCMAS and STEM Robo—which have been shaping young minds in different but complementary ways.
UCMAS, a globally recognized brain development program originating from Malaysia, uses the ancient tool of the abacus combined with mental arithmetic techniques to sharpen children’s concentration, memory, and analytical thinking. The method has been proven worldwide to improve academic performance and build self-confidence in learners.
The second program, STEM Robo, comes from India and offers a hands-on approach to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through robotics, coding, and artificial intelligence. Delivered through fully equipped STEM laboratories set up directly in schools, the program is designed to inspire innovation and prepare students for careers in a rapidly evolving digital world.
“For school owners, we offer to set up these labs for free,” Mr. Gurbani explained. “There is no need to source expensive robotic equipment or worry about curriculum alignment. We handle everything from lab setup to expert training, all mapped to the Ghana Education Curriculum.”
This offer is a game-changer for many schools that lack the resources to introduce advanced technology-based learning. By removing the financial and logistical barriers, Maurya Education ensures that even institutions with limited budgets can expose their students to world-class STEM education.
The company’s focus on 21st-century skills is driven by a recognition that Ghana, like the rest of the world, is navigating a technological revolution. Digital literacy, creativity, and problem-solving are no longer optional skills—they are essential for the leaders of tomorrow.
“We are addressing the skills gap with world-class programs that are both effective and affordable,” Mr. Gurbani stressed. “Parents are seeing the benefits, and our growth each year is proof that what we’re doing is working.”
Now in its 18th year of operation in Ghana, Maurya Education has reached hundreds of thousands of students. Its impact is visible in the growing number of alumni who credit the programs with helping them excel in academics, secure scholarships, and pursue careers in science and technology.
While much of the organization’s reach has so far been through private schools, there is a clear ambition to expand into public education. Discussions are already underway with the Ministry of Education to integrate STEM Robo into government schools.
“We’ve already submitted introductory proposals for our STEM Labs to the Ministry,” Mr. Gurbani revealed. “Over the years, we have received strong support from successive education ministers, and we hope to meet with the current Minister soon to explore wider implementation across public schools.”
He acknowledged the encouragement received from key education figures, including Dr. Enyo Tetteh and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, noting that every administration since 2007 has shown an openness to initiatives that enhance practical learning for children.
The potential entry into public schools could be a turning point for STEM education in Ghana, enabling children in all regions—especially underserved communities—to benefit from tools and teaching methods that match global standards. In a world where artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping industries, early exposure to such skills could be decisive in determining future career success.
Maurya Education’s approach has also been notable for balancing high-quality delivery with affordability. This is a deliberate choice aimed at ensuring that cost is never a barrier to participation.
“These are international programs, but we have made them very affordable so that no child in Ghana is left behind,” Mr. Gurbani said. “Whether it’s UCMAS or STEM Robo, our focus is on equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed in a fast-changing world.”
The organization’s long-term vision includes deeper collaborations with stakeholders in education, technology, and policy. By creating a strong ecosystem of support, Maurya Education hopes to not only continue running its flagship events but also influence curriculum development in ways that align with global best practices.
Events like the extended UCMAS National Competition are not just about trophies and rankings—they are about cultivating a mindset that values innovation, persistence, and teamwork. For many of the children who attend, the experience becomes a catalyst for bigger dreams, whether that’s becoming a software engineer, a scientist, or an entrepreneur.
As Ghana continues to position itself as a regional leader in education and technology, initiatives like those of Maurya Education are proving that private sector commitment can play a vital role in national development. With the right blend of vision, resources, and collaboration, the gap between traditional learning and future-ready education can be bridged.
In the meantime, the smiles, excitement, and camaraderie witnessed at this year’s three-day UCMAS event are clear signs that Maurya Education is not just teaching skills—it is shaping futures. And for the thousands of children who took part, the journey of discovery and learning has only just begun.
