Nana Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana, had the honor of addressing the 3rd Applied Research Conference of Technical Universities in Ghana (ARCTUG 2024) on Wednesday, 29th May 2024, in Sunyani. The conference served as a platform to highlights the crucial partnership between universities, industry, and government to drive innovation and entrepreneurship, which are essential for national development. President Akufo-Addo highlighted the need for collective effort to harness intellectual, technical, and financial resources to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the indispensable role of technical universities in fostering innovation and bridging the gap between theory and practice. He stressed that by engaging with industry partners, these institutions ensure that their research aligns with real-world challenges, thus enhancing students’ educational experiences and providing businesses with cutting-edge insights. It is essential for the industry to support education through funding and active participation, creating a robust educational system that produces a skilled workforce ready to meet future demands, president noted.
President Akufo-Addo reiterated his government’s commitment to advancing education and research, evidenced by substantial investments in research and book allowances. The President highlighted the significant impact of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) on Ghana’s start-up ecosystem. The NEIP has created over 100,000 jobs and positioned Ghana as a hub for innovation in West Africa. Through continued collaboration and investment in STEM education, President Akufo-Addo articulated a vision for building a brighter, more innovative future for the nation.
The President’s address underscored several key themes. He spoke about the need for technical universities to play a pivotal role in the nation’s development. By aligning their research with the practical needs of industry, these institutions can produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also ready to tackle real-world problems. This alignment ensures that students are well-prepared for the workforce, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive innovation and economic growth.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the importance of industry support in education. He called for businesses to actively participate in the educational process, not just through funding but also by engaging with academic institutions to provide practical insights and experiences. This collaboration between industry and academia is vital for creating a dynamic and responsive educational system that can adapt to the changing demands of the economy.
The President also pointed to the success of the NEIP as a testament to the potential of strategic investments in innovation and entrepreneurship. The NEIP has fostered a vibrant start-up culture in Ghana, supporting young entrepreneurs and providing them with the resources they need to succeed
President Akufo-Addo’s vision for the future includes a strong emphasis on STEM education. He believes that by prioritizing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, Ghana can build a more innovative and competitive economy. STEM education is seen as a critical driver of technological advancement and economic development, providing students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
The President concluded his address by calling for continued collaboration between universities, industry, and government. He stressed that only through collective effort can Ghana overcome its challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
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