ACCRA — The Ghana Government has pledged stronger support for the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to improve working conditions, retain scientific talent and accelerate the commercialisation of research and innovations.
The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, made the commitment during a familiarisation visit to the CSIR and the Electrical and Electronic Waste Management Fund Secretariat in Accra.
The visit formed part of efforts to acquaint the minister with the operations, programmes and challenges of institutions under the ministry and identify areas requiring stronger government support and collaboration.
At the CSIR, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings underscored the importance of scientific research and innovation to Ghana’s development, saying government support for the sector was consistent with its broader vision of using science, technology and innovation to transform the economy.
She acknowledged concerns over the retention of scientists and called for a review of their conditions of service within the broader economic framework.
The minister also stressed the need to commercialise research outcomes to generate revenue that could help improve researchers’ conditions and strengthen the CSIR.
She said the government’s approach was intended to create an environment capable of encouraging experienced scientists to remain in Ghana while inspiring young people to pursue careers in science and research.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings said Ghana had significant scientific expertise and resources, but stronger links were needed between research institutions, industry, government and development partners to ensure that discoveries moved beyond laboratories and addressed practical national challenges.
She encouraged the CSIR leadership and staff to maintain open and solution-oriented communication with the government on challenges confronting the institution, stressing that researchers must contribute their expertise and practical solutions to national development.
The minister had earlier indicated during her parliamentary vetting that strengthening the link between research, industry and government would be central to commercialising Ghanaian innovations. She also identified stronger private-sector partnerships and protection of intellectual property as important to giving scientists confidence that their work would be recognised and protected.
At the Electrical and Electronic Waste Management Fund Secretariat, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings was briefed on initiatives for managing and recycling electronic waste and promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
She called for innovative approaches to e-waste management that could create jobs, protect public health and reduce the environmental impact of discarded electrical and electronic equipment.
The minister also urged the institutions to strengthen public education and awareness on responsible waste disposal and the role of science and technology in addressing environmental challenges.
She assured the leadership of the institutions of government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for scientific research, innovation and technological development.
The familiarisation engagement is expected to strengthen collaboration between the ministry and its agencies while providing clearer understanding of their operational needs, ongoing programmes and opportunities for improvement.
The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology lists the Electrical and Electronic Waste Management Fund among its agencies and describes the fund as providing sustainable financing for environmentally sound management of electrical and electronic waste in Ghana.
