UG Launches Immersion Exchange Programme with Lancaster University to Build Research Administration Capacity

The University of Ghana is collaborating with Lancaster University on an immersion exchange initiative under the Emerging Leadership in Research Administration and Innovation Management Programme. The five-day intensive programme aims to strengthen the capacity of research administrators from both institutions while promoting cross-institutional learning and best practices.

Chairing the brief opening ceremony, the Registrar of the University of Ghana, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah, noted that the programme aligns with some of the University’s Strategic Priorities and Objectives on Impactful Research, Commitment to Faculty and Staff and Engagement and Partnerships. She highlighted the expected outcomes of the exchange, such as fostering leadership and strategic thinking, strengthening collaboration and networking and deepening a culture of research excellence and integrity.

The Deputy Provost of Lancaster University Ghana, Prof. Cynthia Forson, who also serves as Director for External Engagement, West Africa (Lancaster University, UK), emphasised the growing significance of research administration and innovation management in shaping university systems, national development, policy planning and global competitiveness. “Lancaster University is deeply committed to developing strong, future-focused collaborations across Africa and working closely with the University of Ghana aligns perfectly with our mission,” she stated.

Director of the Research and Innovation Directorate (RID), Professor David Dodoo-Arhin, underscored the importance of the programme in strengthening support for faculty and staff, especially those in research administration and management. He noted that the Directorate continues to expand, making the partnership both timely and strategic.

As part of the programme, participants engaged in an innovative showcase featuring presentations from UG startups, incubators and student innovators. Workshops were also held on topics such as building global partnerships, research funding and grantsmanship and commercialisation strategies. 

The visiting team toured the University, with stops at the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Nest and the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI).

The Lancaster University, UK delegation includes Michaela Neild, Research Funding Manager; Andrew Wilkinson, Research Development Officer and Jon Powell, Head of Enterprise and Innovation Services.