Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (Ghana)

The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) in Ghana is committed to promoting sustainable environmental management and the integration of science, technology, and innovation into national development.

MESTI achieves this by formulating effective policies and providing oversight through the monitoring and evaluation of sector plans, programmes, and projects. The Ministry’s central goal is to accelerate socio-economic development through environmentally friendly scientific and technological practices.

By fostering the use of appropriate technologies and creating a robust regulatory framework, MESTI works to improve livelihoods, protect natural resources, and advance Ghana’s development priorities.

Strengthening research through the SGCI

Ghana has been an active participant in the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI), which supports the strengthening of research management systems across sub-Saharan Africa. The SGCI has played a key role in enhancing Ghana’s global research visibility and collaborative capacity.

Through the SGCI, Ghana has developed valuable international research connections, with opportunities to engage platforms such as the Global Research Council. These global linkages help raise the Council’s profile and broaden access to new partnerships.

Peer-to-peer learning and regional collaboration

Peer-to-peer learning is a key benefit of the SGCI. A notable example is Ghana’s involvement in the Africa, Water, Energy, and Food Programme, a joint funding initiative involving 10 Science Granting Councils. By pooling resources and sharing expertise, these SGCs have improved research practices and strengthened project outcomes. These regional partnerships show how collaboration enhances the quality and relevance of research across Africa.

Ghana’s Council also serves as a key enabler, linking institutions and researchers across sectors. This positioning allows it to influence funding decisions by showcasing its research capacity and strategic leadership.

Leadership Perspective:

In a recent video interview, Mr Cephas Adjei Mensah, Director for Research, Statistics, and Information Management at MESTI, highlighted the SGCI’s value. He emphasised the importance of sustainable research funding and the SGCI’s role in expanding Ghana’s participation in global research networks.
Through MESTI’s ongoing efforts and its partnership with SGCI, Ghana continues to advance science, innovation, and inclusive development across the region.