Story by: Murtala Issah
The School of Economics of the University for Development Studies (UDS) has held its second Public Lecture Series at the Nyankpala Campus, bringing together academics, students, and development practitioners to reflect on the role of research and innovation in shaping higher education in Africa.
Held under the theme “Research and Innovation Development in Higher Educational Institutions: Understanding the Landscape,” the event highlighted the need for universities, especially those in developing economies, to strengthen research capacity, enhance collaboration, and diversify funding sources.
In his acceptance speech, Chairman for the occasion and Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, underscored the importance of having a dedicated Faculty of Economics within UDS. He noted that the faculty continues to play a pivotal role in producing highly skilled economists whose work contributes significantly to national development.
Speaking on the purpose of the programme, Prof. Awuni Joseph emphasized that the lecture was designed to deepen students’ understanding of emerging innovations in the field of economics. He explained that exposing students to advanced research insights was crucial for preparing them to respond effectively to the rapidly evolving global economic landscape.
The guest speaker, Prof. Felix A. Asante, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on resource mobilization in higher education institutions. He observed that Africa continues to lag behind in attracting and sustaining research funding, despite the continent generating many groundbreaking ideas.
Citing the European Union’s funding patterns, he noted that SCIR remains one of the largest beneficiaries of EU research support, demonstrating the potential gains when systems are well-structured and coordinated. Prof. Asante encouraged African governments and universities to strengthen their funding frameworks to harness the continent’s intellectual potential.
He further stressed the need for closer collaboration between the Ministry of Education and other government agencies in securing scholarships for students, while urging African countries to invest intentionally in research to enable the commercialization of innovations. He called on universities in Ghana to work collectively when applying for research grants rather than operating in isolation.
To ensure long-term sustainability, Prof. Asante recommended the diversification of funding sources and stronger capacity-building initiatives across higher education institutions.
In his closing remarks, the Chairman of the programme charged universities in Ghana to mobilize resources to transform brilliant academic ideas into tangible outcomes. He praised the vision of the Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan, for establishing a research fund aimed at supporting innovative projects that address societal challenges.
As a gesture of appreciation, the Dean of the School of Economics and the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus presented a beautifully designed smock and plaque to Prof. Felix A. Asante for his insightful contribution to the lecture series.
