The University of Ghana has taken a significant step towards enhancing its research capabilities to achieve global impact with the commissioning of a state-of-the-art office complex designed to house critical research and innovation units.
This development signifies a new era in the coordination of research activities at the University and is expected to pave the way for advancements in various research areas. It also coincides with the University's renewed focus on impactful research following the introduction of a new strategic plan and research strategy.
In his welcome address, Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for Research Innovation and Development, recounted that in 2021 the management of the Office of Research, Innovation and Development initiated plans to build an office complex to consolidate scattered offices and streamline research activities.
Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for Research Innovation and Development
He noted that the new complex “includes provisions for units that support research, such as the Finance, Internal Audit and Logistics Directorates and well as the Office of the Legal Counsel.” This, he said, “will enable the various offices to seamlessly work together to achieve the research goals of the University with minimal hindrances.”
Prof. Asante mentioned that “the estimated budget for the building was 22 million cedis,” with industry partners making donations to support the construction of the edifice. He expressed his excitement about the completion of the building, thanking his predecessors for their foresight in starting the project. While lauding the Vice-Chancellor for support during the construction of the facility, he also shared the various challenges faced during the construction of the facility, which included financial difficulties.
Prof. Asante expressed enthusiasm about the new opportunities the complex presents, noting that “with the new complex, we can better support our researchers, attract top talent and secure more funding for innovative projects. This is a critical investment in the future of research and development at our university.”
In her speech at the commissioning, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo acknowledged the role of the Office of Research, Innovation and Development in driving the University’s research agenda over the years.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo
She stated that UG’s new strategic plan has a key focus on impactful research and the commissioning of the office complex could not have come at a better time. “Having recently launched the University’s research strategy, with the enhanced focus on innovation and nurturing a community of place and enterprising stakeholders, the commissioning of this building today is very well timed,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
Prof. Amfo reaffirmed her confidence in the capable leadership of ORID, particularly Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, to utilise and upgrade capacity and resources while sustaining the gains the University has made in research.
She announced that a decentralised management system currently being implemented will help enhance the research management process of the University. She acknowledged the previous Pro Vice-Chancellors of RID, Prof. Yaa Ntiamoah Badu, for starting the initiative, Prof. John Gyapong and Prof. Francis Dodoo, for continuing it, as well as all who contributed in one way or another.
Rev. Yaw Boamah, Head Pastor of the Legon Interdenominational Church (LIC), in dedicating the new building with a prayer, charged the management to maintain the facility.
Rev. Yaw Boamah, Head Pastor of the Legon Interdenominational Church (LIC)
The Vice-Chancellor, together with the Pro VC RID, Pro Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs Prof. Gordon Awandare, Registrar Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah and Rev. Yaw Boamah, jointly unveiled a plaque and cut the ribbon to officially open the new office complex.
Unveiling of plaque
With the commissioning of this new office complex, the University of Ghana is poised to gainfully enhance its research output and impact. This strategic investment will drive innovation, attract international collaborations and elevate the University's status as a leading research institution in Africa and beyond. It is designed to facilitate seamless interaction between researchers and support staff, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of research activities.
A cross-section of ORID staff at the commissioning
The complex will host the Office and Secretariat of the Pro Vice-Chancellor in charge of Research, Innovation and Development, as well as Offices for Research Development Officers and the OR Tambo Africa Research Chair at the University. The complex will also play host to the newly established Directorate of Research and Innovation.
UG Officials at the event
The brief ceremony moderated by Ms. Pascaline K. Songsore, Senior Assistant Registrar at the Public Affairs Directorate, was attended by Provosts, Deans, Directors, Heads of Department, staff and other senior members of the University community.
VC and other officials touring the building
A tour of the facility was conducted after the formal opening.
