Ghana Must Move Innovation Beyond Academia to Boost Economic Development

Innovation beyond academia in Ghana must become a national priority if the country is to unlock sustainable economic development and real-world impact from its scientific research, says Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI).

Speaking at the Biannual Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Forum in Accra, Dr. Muhammed emphasized the urgent need to reform Ghana’s innovation ecosystem. He noted that despite numerous research breakthroughs, many innovations remain stuck within universities and laboratories, with limited impact on industry and the broader economy.

“We have brilliant minds in our universities and research institutions, but too often, their discoveries remain in the lab,” Dr. Muhammed said. “We must ensure our research translates into tangible products and services that drive national development.”

Themed “Bridging the Gap to Improve Ghana’s Innovation and Research Commercialisation Ecosystem for Economic Development”, the 2025 BEST Forum brought together researchers, entrepreneurs, government officials, and investors to tackle one of Ghana’s most persistent challenges: the commercialization of innovation.

Driving Innovation Beyond Academia in Ghana Through Stronger Partnerships

Dr. Muhammed called for strategic collaboration among academia, private industry, and government, stating that research institutions often lack the funding, policy frameworks, and commercialization support necessary to scale their innovations.

“We need robust networks connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors,” he added. “Partnerships are the foundation of any thriving innovation ecosystem.”

UNESCO Backs Ghana’s Innovation Potential

Echoing these sentiments, UNESCO Country Director Mr. Edmund Moukala stressed the importance of government leadership in fostering an environment where innovation can flourish.

“Innovation must be supported with proper infrastructure—from incubators and accelerators to clear policies protecting intellectual property,” Mr. Moukala said. “A conducive environment encourages risk-taking and attracts long-term investment.”

He noted that Ghana has the potential to become a hub for innovation in West Africa if it leverages public-private partnerships and enhances its research-to-market pipeline.

New Government Initiatives to Support Commercialization

Ms. Suweibatu Adam, Chief Director at MESTI, revealed that the ministry is prioritizing collective action and ecosystem-building initiatives. A key intervention includes the launch of a “common market space” to connect innovators, investors, and government actors.

“If we want to fully tap into the benefits of science, technology, and innovation, we must bridge the gap between research and commercialization,” she stated. “This platform will serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and investment matchmaking.”

Positioning Ghana for Innovation-Driven Growth

The BEST Forum remains a vital platform for promoting innovation in Ghana, enhancing research commercialisation strategies, and aligning stakeholders toward a shared vision for sustainable economic development.

With deeper collaboration, targeted funding, and a clear policy framework, Ghana can unlock the full economic potential of its home-grown innovations—and become a leader in science and technology-driven development in Africa.

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What are your thoughts on how Ghana can better bridge the gap between research and real-world application?

We invite you to share your views, experiences, or suggestions in the comments section below. Your insights could help shape the conversation on innovation and economic transformation in Ghana.

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By Fadl Rahman Essel, JMK Consulting Limited.