KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Delivered by Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (MP)
Minister for Environment, Science and Technology (MEST)
Theme:
“Bridging the Gap to Improve Ghana’s Innovation and Research Commercialization Ecosystem for Economic Development”

National Partners’ Dialogue
3rd June 2025

British Council Auditorium

Hon. Ministers Herein Present,
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Chief Directors, Directors and Heads of Institutions Present,
Development Partners,
Members of the Academia & Research Institutions,
Industry Players,
Esteemed Partners and Stakeholders,
Students,
Members of the BEST Planning Committee,
Friends from the Media,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with great pleasure that we are all gathered here today at this National Partners’ Dialogue to discuss a topical issue that is not only critical to our future but also to the prosperity of our nation. This dialogue is not merely a gathering of minds but a crucial step toward fostering economic development through the power of innovation and research.
Let me extend my appreciation and warm welcome to all of you for sharing this vision of our (MEST) and making time to actively participate in the dialogue. Particularly, I am excited about the support this initiative has received and the willingness on the part of our partners to work with us for the sustenance of the Forum.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we all know, Ghana is a nation rich in potential. We are blessed with a wealth of natural resources, a vibrant culture, and a youthful population eager to contribute to our national growth. However, despite these advantages, we find ourselves at a crossroads. Our innovation and research sectors have not yet reached their full potential.
We have brilliant minds in our universities and research institutions. Yet, too often, their groundbreaking work remains confined to academic papers and laboratory walls, rather than transforming them into viable products and services that can uplift our economy
With over ten thousand researchers scattered across sectors, and countless startups emerging each year, we are on the cusp of transforming our economy. It is vital that we harness this potential and ensure that our innovations do not remain confined to the walls of our laboratories and universities. Instead, we must propel them into the marketplace, where they can create jobs, stimulate growth, and improve the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
To understand the urgency of our mission, let us consider the current landscape of innovation and research in Ghana. According to a 2021 article published in the Collnet Journal of Scientometrics and Information Management, Ghana ranked among the top 10 countries in Africa for scientific research output. Yet, despite these impressive statistics, we find ourselves facing a significant challenge.

The 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII) ranked Ghana as the 101st among the 133 economies featured. This indicates that Ghana is not doing well in terms of innovation capabilities. The gap between research and commercialization remains wide. This gap is not merely a statistical anomaly; it is a barrier that hinders our progress and diminishes our potential. Successful commercialization is not just an ideal; it is a reality that we can achieve.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Consider the story of “Project Maji” which is a Ghanaian-based startup that developed a solar-powered water purification system. This innovation emerged from years of research and testing, and today it serves communities across rural Ghana, providing clean drinking water and improving health outcomes. This is just one example, not forgetting our own CSIR, of how bridging the gap between research and commercialization can lead to tangible benefits for our society.

We must strive to replicate such success stories. To do so, we need to create an environment that fosters collaboration among researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors. This partnership is essential to drive innovation forward. We must establish networks that connect academia with industry, ensuring that our brightest minds are working hand in hand with those who can bring their ideas to life. By facilitating these connections, we can create a robust ecosystem where innovation thrives.
Furthermore, we must invest in our human capital. Training programmes and workshops that focus on entrepreneurship and commercialization strategies are critical. We need to equip our researchers and innovators with the skills to navigate the complexities of the market. Empowering them with knowledge will not only enhance their individual capabilities but will also elevate the entire innovation landscape in Ghana.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we discuss the way forward, let us not forget the importance of funding. Access to financial resources is a common barrier that many startups and entrepreneurs face. We must work together to create funding mechanisms that support early-stage innovations. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in this regard. By pooling resources and expertise, we can ensure that promising ideas receive the support they need to reach the market.
Dear Partners, as a Ministry responsible for Environment, Science and Technology, we are putting in a lot to build robust institutional and policy frameworks to promote research commercialization. We have created the “Ghana Innovation and Research Commercialization Centre” (GIRC Centre) which is expected to transform into a Ghana Innovation Agency with the core mission to contribute to advancing innovation and sustainable development by supporting innovative research and commercialization. The GIRC Centre is strategically positioned to be an Agency supporting STI; a Secretariat overseeing Research & Innovation and a Hub facilitating an innovative ecosystem.

Distinguished Guests,
It is important to highlight the role of Intellectual Property registration in commercialization of research. According to World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), IP Statistics Data Centre information on total Patent applications (Resident + Abroad) in 2023, Ghana ranked 127th with only 12 Patent applications in 2023. Comparing Ghana’s performance with that of the 1st ranked country (China), which had 1,642, 582 applications, it could be deduced that Ghana is not doing well. There is therefore the need to tackle Intellectual Property challenges as they will provide the support needed for IP registrations in collaboration with the Registrar Generals Department.
It must also be relayed that the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology is also actively involved in the development of the Ghana Innovation and Startups Bill which will create a conducive environment for Startups in Ghana as well as provide incentives for Startups to invest in innovative projects. A supportive regulatory framework is essential to encourage both local and foreign investments in our startups.
We have also revised the STI Policy and is currently in Cabinet for consideration. The Nuclear Radiation Safety policy is completed and awaiting approval. We are also seeking ⁠Policy Approval of the development of a Bill for the establishment of Space Agency. The strengthening of the legal and policy frameworks will enhance and promote the research commercialization in Ghana.

Distinguished Guests, Partners, Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Ministry, through this flagship Biannual Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Forum seeks to create a marketplace to showcase our innovations. To be held twice a year, the Forum will provide a unique opportunity for researchers and entrepreneurs to present their work to potential investors, partners, and stakeholders. By highlighting our successes and sharing our challenges, we can foster a culture of transparency and collaboration that will ultimately strengthen our innovative ecosystem. There are groundbreaking technologies, applications, methods, processes, innovations and inventions that are yet to be known and commercialized. I encourage all partners to take advantage of the BEST forum to collectively transform our nation through Science, Technology and Innovation.
As we reflect on this journey, let us draw inspiration from the global landscape. Many countries have successfully bridged the gap between research and commercialization, leading to significant economic growth. We are learning from their experiences, adapting their strategies to our context, and implementing best practices that resonate with our unique challenges and opportunities.

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Please join me to extend appreciation to the Planning Committee for their work so far in putting together this event as a prelude to the main one. Thanks to our supporters, partners and stakeholders. We continue to count on you.
Bridging the gap to improve Ghana’s innovation and research commercialization ecosystem is not just a goal; it is a necessity. By fostering collaboration, investing in human capital, ensuring access to funding, and creating a supportive policy environment, we can unlock the vast potential of our researchers and startups and eventually striving businesses.
Together, we can transform ideas into reality, drive economic development, and create a brighter future for all Ghanaians. Thank you for your attention and commitment to this vital cause.

Let us move forward together, united in purpose and unwavering in our resolve.

Thank you.

Source:Mybrytfmonline.com