The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has called for stronger collaboration among government, research institutions, and industry to translate locally developed research into practical, commercially viable solutions.
She made the call during a familiarisation visit to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the E-Waste Management Fund Secretariat, where she met with researchers and officials to discuss the role of science and technology in addressing national challenges.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings said Ghana possesses considerable scientific expertise and institutional capacity but needs stronger mechanisms to move research from laboratories into industry and communities.
She identified closer partnerships among government, scientists, and the private sector as essential to commercialising local innovations and reducing reliance on imported technologies.
The Minister also called for increased investment in research and development, emphasising that funding should be complemented by deliberate efforts to identify, develop, and scale promising innovations.
She urged scientists to communicate their work in accessible language to strengthen public understanding of science and encourage more young people to pursue careers in scientific and technical fields.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings identified land remediation, water purification, and environmental sustainability as priority areas requiring sustained research.
Regarding researchers’ welfare, she pledged to work with agencies under her ministry to improve conditions of service, retain scientific talent, and foster a more supportive environment for innovation.
The Director-General of CSIR, Prof. Paul P. Bosu, welcomed the Minister’s visit, describing it as timely as Ghana seeks to strengthen the contribution of science and technology to national development.
He reaffirmed CSIR’s readiness to support the government through research, policy advice, and technology development