Written by: Badr Ahmed

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama launched the Ghana National Research Fund (GNRF), with an initial capital of 100 million Ghanaian Cedis, in a move aimed at strengthening the scientific research and innovation system and supporting knowledge-based development in the country.

The new fund aims to support competitive research grants, doctoral and postdoctoral graduate programs, in addition to funding priority national research initiatives, along with developing a modern digital system for managing research grants to ensure transparency and efficiency in the distribution of funding.

Ghana enters a new phase of investment in innovation and applied research

During the launch ceremony, President Mahama called on researchers and scientists in Ghana to focus on producing practical solutions to national challenges, stressing that the role of scientific research should not be limited to the academic aspect only, but should extend to include direct contribution to job creation, supporting industrial growth, achieving transformation in the agricultural sector, and improving the standard of living of citizens.

The Ghanaian president stressed that investment in research and innovation is a key pillar for building a modern, knowledge-based economy, emphasizing the need to direct scientific efforts towards national development priorities, in order to ensure a tangible impact on the economy and society.

President Mahama also directed the relevant ministries and agencies to take practical steps to increase support for the scientific research and innovation sector, and to work to enhance Ghana’s position in a way that allows it to benefit from international partnerships and global funding opportunities in this vital field.

He noted that the establishment of the National Fund for Scientific Research represents an important milestone in the development of the science, technology and innovation system in Ghana, and reflects the state’s commitment to promoting knowledge as one of the main drivers of sustainable development.

The new fund is expected to contribute to a qualitative shift in the scientific research environment within the country, through financing projects with a direct impact, and encouraging cooperation between universities, research centers and the private sector, thereby enhancing Ghana’s ability to compete regionally and internationally in the fields of innovation and technology.

The launch of the fund comes within a broader governmental approach aimed at consolidating the knowledge-based economy, expanding the base of applied research, and stimulating young minds to be creative and innovative in various vital sectors.