The UK government has announced up to £1.9 million in funding to strengthen science, technology, and innovation (STI) in Ghana and Nigeria through its West Africa Research and Innovation Hub. The investment, named the Sankore initiative, is aimed at promoting partnerships between universities, research centres, and the private sector, facilitating the commercialization of innovative solutions, and enhancing government digital services.
The funding will support the UK’s partnership with the governments of Ghana and Nigeria on STI and improve innovation policy. Named after the Sankore University, a historic centre of learning in mediaeval West Africa, the initiative will also help implement the UK-Ghana Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy, aligning with Ghana’s tech goals.
At the launch event in Accra, UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating, “This initiative is all about working together to strengthen the global technology sector, creating opportunities for rapidly growing economies with the potential to compete on the world stage. The Sankore grant fosters partnerships with a strong message: we go far when we go together.”
Ghana’s Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Ophelia Mensah Hayford, emphasised the significance of the initiative, saying, "Sankore will catalyze the implementation of the UK-Ghana ST&I Strategy and bridge the funding gap for technological innovation. We are excited to partner with key actors in the ecosystem to drive economic transformation through STI."
British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, added, "The launch of Sankore sends a clear message: the UK values its partnerships with African countries on science, technology, and innovation and is committed to bringing those partnerships to life."
The Sankore initiative aims to turn innovative ideas into practical products for industry and strengthen the economic transformation of both Ghana and Nigeria through technological innovation.
Interested qualified organisations and partners should submit their proposals here by 25th October 2024.
Article by RB Correspondent
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