Ghana–Norway partnership key to research, innovation – Dr. Apaak

The Deputy Minister for Education, Clement Abas Apaak, has underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing higher education and research, describing the Ghana–Norway partnership as critical to national development.

Speaking at the Ghana–Norway Academic Programme held at the ISSER Conference Facility, University of Ghana, on April 17, 2026, Dr Apaak said global challenges require coordinated efforts and strong partnerships rather than isolated approaches.

“It is an honour to join you today at a time when global challenges demand not isolated efforts, but strong and purposeful partnerships,” he said.

He noted that the collaboration between Ghana and Norway is both timely and essential in shaping the future of higher education and research in both countries.

According to him, the programme’s theme, “strengthening collaboration in higher education and research,” highlights the central role of knowledge, innovation and human capital in sustainable development.

“The theme of today’s programme ‘strengthening collaboration in higher education and research’ speaks directly to a reality we cannot ignore: no nation can develop sustainably without investing in knowledge, innovation, and human capital,” he stated.

Dr Apaak pointed to ongoing initiatives such as NORHED and NOREC as examples of how structured partnerships can deliver measurable results. He said these programmes have contributed to improved research output, capacity building and the training of highly skilled professionals.

He further emphasised that universities must play a transformative role in national development, describing them as key drivers of innovation and problem-solving.

“Today, our universities are not just centres of learning; they are engines of national transformation,” he said.

He added that joint research efforts in areas such as climate change, water resource management, public health and coastal development are already producing solutions aligned with Ghana’s development priorities.

The Deputy Minister noted that the partnership has also led to the introduction of new postgraduate programmes, improved research infrastructure and increased global visibility for Ghanaian institutions.

He stressed the need to scale up these gains and ensure that research outcomes are translated into policy and practical solutions.

“As Government, we are committed to deepening this partnership through increased support for research and innovation, stronger alignment between academia and industry, and policies that promote knowledge transfer and skills development,” he said.

Dr Apaak urged stakeholders to move beyond symbolic collaboration and focus on initiatives that deliver real impact.

“We must move beyond collaboration for its own sake and pursue collaboration that delivers measurable impact—impact that improves livelihoods, strengthens institutions, and drives economic transformation,” he added.

He also highlighted the role of students and young researchers, describing them as future leaders and innovators who will sustain and expand the partnership.

In conclusion, Dr Apaak described the Ghana–Norway partnership as a model for effective international cooperation, calling for renewed commitment to deepen collaboration and achieve greater outcomes.

“Together, we can transform knowledge into solutions and partnerships into progress,” he said.