Dr. Victor Lawrence, a Ghanaian-born, U.S.-based electrical engineer and telecommunications expert, has been awarded the National Medal of Technology, the highest honour in engineering in the United States. The prestigious award was presented to him by U.S.

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President Joe Biden during a ceremony at the White House, recognizing his groundbreaking contributions to digital signal processing, which played a pivotal role in the transition from analogue to digital networks.Dr. Lawrence’s innovations have had a profound impact on early internet access technology and global data communications, securing his place as a pioneering scientist and inventor.

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With over 20 patents to his name, his work has shaped the digital infrastructure that powers today’s interconnected world. Notably, Dr. Lawrence is the first African-born recipient of this esteemed honour, underscoring his global influence in science and technology.The National Medal of Technology, established by Congress in 1980 and administered by the U.S.

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Patent and Trademark Office, celebrates innovators whose visionary work strengthens the economy and improves the quality of life. During the ceremony, President Biden praised the awardees for their groundbreaking contributions that address global challenges such as climate change, disease treatment, and advancements in communication and technology. He highlighted how their work inspires the next generation of leaders in science and

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innovation.

Lawrence’s illustrious career began at Achimota School in Accra, Ghana, where his passion for science first took root. He attended the school from 1957 to 1964, before pursuing further studies at Imperial College London, where he earned his degree in electrical engineering. After completing his graduate training in 1972, he returned to Ghana to teach at Kwame Nkrumah University

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of Science and Technology (KNUST) for a year, before moving to the United States.His most notable achievements occurred during his tenure at Bell Laboratories, where he made significant advancements in digital signal processing and telecommunications. Dr. Lawrence's contributions have revolutionized the way we communicate, and his groundbreaking work continues to inspire scientists and engineers worldwide.

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The Board of Governors of Achimota School expressed immense pride in Dr. Lawrence’s accomplishments, with Chairman Dr. Ernest Aryeetey issuing a statement celebrating his achievements. The school lauded him for his exceptional contributions to science and engineering, noting that he serves as a role model for future generations of innovators.

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