The University of Ghana has solidified its partnership with Tallinn University, a leading research university in Estonia. The partnership was formalised through the signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) held at the African Regent Hotel. This forms part of the University’s stride towards fostering international collaboration in the areas of education and research.
Delivering brief remarks at the signing event, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, praised the visiting team from Tallinn University for their active participation and contributions to the University of Ghana’s Annual New Year School and Conference. She expressed optimism about the prospects of fruitful collaboration.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo
The Vice-Chancellor applauded the number of members on the visiting team and said it was “the strongest indication of their readiness for collaborations with UG.” Prof. Amfo emphasised that the collaboration between the University of Ghana and Tallinn University had already commenced and it was only right that arrangements were formalised.
Furthermore, the Vice-Chancellor took the opportunity to call upon all university units to actively engage and capitalise on the myriad opportunities presented by this collaborative venture. In a bid to ensure the seamless progress of these initiatives, she made a commitment to closely monitor and oversee the implementation of the MoU through the University's Office of Research, Innovation and Development (ORID).
On his part, the Rector of Tallinn University, Prof. Tõnu Viik, thanked the University Management for extending a cordial invitation to the Annual New Year School. He conveyed the readiness of Tallinn University to work with the various units and departments in UG to implement the MoU successfully.
Rector of Tallinn University, Prof. Tõnu Viik
Providing insights into the partnership, Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, the Pro Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for Research, Innovation, and Development, recounted the journey leading up to the MoU signing. He revealed that discussions commenced in March 2023 following a faculty exchange visit, which sparked meaningful conversations. Subsequent visits, including one by a Tallinn professor to UG, aimed to explore the rich research portfolio of the university.
Prof. Asante outlined the nine key areas covered by the MoU, underscoring the diverse range of collaborative initiatives. “This exchange would involve the sharing of lecturers, researchers and both doctoral and graduate students, promoting education, internship opportunities and scientific practice,” he mentioned.
Highlighting the practical aspects of the agreement, Prof. Asante noted the organisation and conducting of lectures and workshops by professors and administrative staff from both parties. These initiatives, including online formats, aim to enrich the educational experience and foster a dynamic learning environment.
Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor (ORID)
Prof. Asante further noted that UG and Tallin University will embark on joint scientific research and initiatives, encompassing conferences, seminars, symposia, round tables and dedicated days focusing on educational and scientific advancements. Prof. Asante stressed the significance of the results from these joint research activities, including publications in esteemed, peer-reviewed scientific journals, ultimately contributing to global databases.
Key among the shared commitments under the MoU, Prof. Asante outlined was the need to establish a Centre of Excellence in Digital Technologies and Innovation Education (DiTIE). This marks a strategic move towards advancing education and research in cutting-edge technological domains.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism about the partnership's mutual benefits and conveyed hope that it would contribute significantly to the academic and research landscape of both institutions.
Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Estonia to Ghana, Mr. Nabil Makram Basbous, who also delivered brief remarks at the signing ceremony, assured that “the consulate is fully prepared to facilitate and support the essential arrangements required for collaboration between the University of Ghana and Tallinn University.”
Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Estonia to Ghana, Mr. Nabil Makram Basbous
Mr. Basbous pledged the consulate's commitment to providing ongoing assistance and collaboration to facilitate a successful and fruitful relationship between the two universities.
Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost of the College of Education, expressed gratitude for the visit from Tallinn and affirmed the College's commitment to ensuring the impactful implementation of the MoU. This commitment, he asserted, aligns with the shared goals of both institutions in advancing education and research on a global scale.
Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost of the College of Education
The signed MoU sets the stage for an enhanced academic exchange, joint research initiatives and other collaborative endeavours between UG and Tallinn University.
The signing ceremony formed part of the 12-member team from Tallinn University’s visit to take part in the 75th Annual New Year School and Conference, organised by the School of Continuing and Distance Education, in the College of Education.
