Research and Innovation Directorate Marks 15 Years of Advancing Research Excellence
The Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) has celebrated fifteen years of advancing research excellence, highlighting the Directorate’s contributions to strengthening research governance, fostering innovation and positioning the University of Ghana as a leading research-intensive institution in Africa.
The milestone formed part of activities marking the climax of the 2026 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa (DSRA), where the University reflected on the Directorate's role in expanding research excellence, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthening partnerships that translate knowledge into societal impact.
Welcoming participants, Director of RID, Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin, described the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate the Directorate's achievements while reaffirming its commitment to coordinating, promoting and supporting impactful research across the University.
He noted that over the past four years, DSRA has evolved into a vibrant, institution-wide platform that reflects the depth and diversity of research across all disciplines. This year's celebration, he explained, featured more than 50 activities organised across the University’s Colleges, alongside numerous seminars, exhibitions, innovation showcases, policy dialogues and community engagement initiatives led by departments, institutes and centres.
In her address, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, commended the Directorate for strengthening the University's research ecosystem over the past fifteen years. She noted that RID has enhanced research governance, expanded opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthened grant management systems and deepened partnerships with industry, government and international institutions. These efforts, she said, have increased the visibility, quality and impact of the University’s research while supporting evidence-based solutions to national and global challenges.
She further emphasised that the University's strategic vision depends on sustained investment in research and innovation that informs policy, addresses societal needs and contributes to sustainable development.
The celebration featured the unveiling of a special edition of the University of Ghana Research Report, showcasing the University’s research outputs, strategic partnerships and societal impact. Participants also viewed a documentary highlighting successful industry collaborations and student innovation initiatives led by the Directorate.
The event concluded with the presentation of Thesis Innovation Awards in recognition of outstanding student research and innovation, reaffirming the University’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers and innovators while strengthening the role of research as a catalyst for Africa's development.
