The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, Prof. Iain Gillespie has led a delegation to the University of Ghana, to meet with various units on developing partnerships that will lead to the establishment of Ghana’s first ever Drug Discovery and Development Centre at UG.
Prof. Gillespie stated that in 2022, he launched the New Africa Initiative to identify partnerships with African institutions and provide the necessary funding for the establishment of Drug Discovery Hubs that will focus on strong future research on diseases.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, Prof. Iain Gillespie (Right)
He also briefed the UG Team on the operations of the University of Dundee, which was founded in 1967, as an independent research university, and has academic strengths in the Life Sciences.
Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor (ORID), who received the delegation, indicated that the development of the Drug Discovery and Development Centre will greatly enhance the University’s standing in the Life Sciences.
Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor (ORID)
He added that UG’s research areas over the last decade have primarily focused on Malaria Research, Climate Change and Adaptation, as well as Agricultural Production, among others. He hinted that the new University's Research Strategy, which is currently being designed, will focus on infectious and non-communicable diseases, Agricultural research with a focus on plant breeding, Artificial Intelligence and Big Data and Creative Arts, among others.
Prof. Asante used the occasion to extend an invitation to the University of Dundee to join UG as it commemorates its 75th Anniversary.
Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs, applauded the delegation for their dedication to internationalisation and partnerships. He expressed optimism that, the partnership that would lead to the setting up of the Centre, would strengthen the ability to deliver greater impact while also building larger networks.
Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs (far left)
He suggested that, the building that would house the Centre, should be specifically for drug discovery, where all the work and equipment can be consolidated for greater efficiency.
Dr. Richard Amewu, Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry at UG and project team member, announced that the project, which began in March 2022, is expected to be completed in 2025. He also disclosed that the Gates Foundation is funding the project.
Present at the meeting from the University of Dundee were Ian Gilbert, Head of Drug Discovery Unit; Wendy Alexander, Pro Vice-Chancellor (UPI); Kim Dale, Assistant VPI; Peter McEleanoy, Africa Lead; Jason Norris, Director of Global Partnerships; and Ellen Broohs, Global Partnerships Manager.
Representatives from the University of Ghana included Ms. Pascaline Songsore, Senior Assistant Registrar, Public Affairs Directorate; and Mrs. Arhizah Blay-Abiti, Senior Assistant Registrar, Office of the Vice-Chancellor.
