Director of Research at the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST), Rev. Dr. Cephas Adjei Mensah, has admitted that research funding in Ghana has long been inadequate, but says government is taking concrete steps to change that.
Speaking in an interview with the media on Monday September 8, Dr. Adjei Mensah emphasized the important role research plays in the economic and social transformation of a country.
“It must be put on record that the investment into research, as we have known in time past, has not been what government expected,” he said.
Rev. Dr. Adjei Mensah further highlighted the launch of the Ghana Science Research Fund as a key initiative aimed at boosting scientific innovation and sustainable development.
“This fund is a driver to look at how we invest in research and make money available for researchers , not just to do research for its own sake, but to ensure it translates into real-world impact”.
He also emphasized the role of MEST in coordinating efforts across agencies like the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission and the National Biosafety Authority, adding, “We must use research as a tool for transformation.”
He revealed that the ministry is working with industry partners and international collaborators to strengthen Ghana’s research ecosystem and ensure long-term sustainability.
