Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has called for bold and coordinated efforts to bridge the gap between research and commercialization in Ghana’s innovation ecosystem.

Speaking on the theme “Bridging the Gap to Improve Ghana’s Innovation and Research Commercialization Ecosystem for Economic Development” at the National Partners’ Dialogue held in Accra on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, Dr. Murtala emphasized that while Ghana possesses a wealth of research talent and innovation potential, the nation has yet to fully convert scientific ideas into market-ready solutions that generate jobs and drive economic growth.

“Ghana is blessed with brilliant minds in our universities and research institutions. Yet, too often, their groundbreaking work remains confined to academic papers and laboratory walls,” he said.

“We must propel our innovations into the marketplace, where they can create jobs, stimulate growth, and improve the quality of life for all Ghanaians.”

Citing recent findings, Dr. Murtala noted that although Ghana ranked among the top ten countries in Africa for scientific research output—according to a 2021 Collnet Journal publication—the country still placed 101st out of 133 economies in the 2024 Global Innovation Index.

He described the gap between research and commercialization as a major barrier hindering national progress.

The Minister pointed to success stories such as Project Maji, a Ghanaian startup that developed a solar-powered water purification system, as a shining example of research delivering real-world impact.

He urged stakeholders to replicate and scale such innovations through stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and investors.

Dr. Murtala highlighted several initiatives by the Ministry to foster an enabling environment for innovation. These include the establishment of the Ghana Innovation and Research Commercialization Centre (GIRC Centre), which is expected to evolve into a full-fledged Ghana Innovation Agency.

The Centre is envisioned as a strategic hub for Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), linking research, innovation, and commercialization efforts under one roof.

He also underscored the Ministry’s role in the development of the upcoming Ghana Innovation and Startups Bill, which aims to provide incentives and a regulatory framework for startups.

Additionally, policy reforms such as the revised STI Policy, the Nuclear Radiation Safety Policy, and a proposed bill for a Ghana Space Agency are part of the broader strategy to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks in the sector.

As part of efforts to promote a culture of innovation, Dr. Murtala also announced the launch of the Biannual Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Forum, which will serve as a marketplace for showcasing Ghanaian innovations and connecting researchers with investors, policymakers, and potential business partners.

“We have groundbreaking technologies, processes, and inventions that are yet to be known and commercialized. I encourage all partners to take advantage of the BEST Forum to collectively transform our nation through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” he said.

KA