The UK government has announced up to £1.9 million in funding aimed at strengthening science, technology, and innovation (ST&I) in Ghana and Nigeria. This investment will be made through the UK’s West Africa Research and Innovation Hub, as part of ongoing efforts to support economic growth in these two nations.
The funding, called the Sankore initiative, was named after a historic center of learning in West Africa. It will focus on enhancing collaboration between governments, research centers, universities, and private sector organizations. The goal is to turn innovative ideas into practical products and solutions that can benefit industries in both Ghana and Nigeria.
A key aspect of the Sankore initiative is supporting the commercialisation of innovative ideas and improving innovation policies in both countries. It will also help improve the delivery of government digital services, allowing both nations to better harness technology for public use.
During the official announcement in Accra, Lord Collins, the UK’s Minister for Africa, explained the importance of the initiative. He stated that the Sankore grant is about fostering partnerships between the UK, Ghana, and Nigeria. The goal is to strengthen the technology sectors of these nations and help them compete globally. Collins emphasized that collaboration is key, saying, “We go far when we go together.”
Ghana’s Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Ophelia Mensah Hayford, expressed excitement about the new initiative. She highlighted that the Sankore initiative will serve as a financing vehicle, supporting the UK-Ghana Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy. Hayford explained that the project will help bridge the funding gap for technological innovation in Ghana, driving economic transformation through science and technology.
British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, also commented on the importance of the Sankore initiative. She noted that the launch of this funding sends a clear message about the UK’s commitment to partnering with African nations on science, technology, and innovation. According to Thompson, the UK sees great value in working alongside countries like Ghana and Nigeria to develop innovative solutions and strengthen existing partnerships.
The funding will encourage research collaboration and the development of new products that align with Ghana’s broader technology goals. The UK-Ghana ST&I Strategy aims to build stronger ties between universities and the private sector to support the commercialization of innovative solutions. This strategy will ensure that research is not only theoretical but is applied to real-world problems, boosting industries and improving lives.
Organizations interested in applying for the funding have until October 25, 2024, to submit their proposals. Proposals should focus on innovative projects that will support the objectives of the *Sankore* initiative, particularly in improving digital services, advancing technology, and fostering collaboration between institutions in West Africa.
The UK’s £1.9 million investment in science and technology shows a strong commitment to supporting the development of innovative industries in West Africa. By fostering collaboration, improving policies, and encouraging research, the initiative will help unlock the potential of technology to drive economic growth in Ghana and Nigeria.
