President John Dramani Mahama has launched the Ghana National Research Fund with a seed capital of GHS 100 million, pledging support for research that addresses the country’s development challenges.

Speaking at the launch in Accra, the President said the fund is intended to strengthen research financing, innovation and knowledge creation, while helping to bridge the gap between academic work and practical national needs.

He said the money would support competitive research grants, doctoral and postdoctoral programmes, digital grant management systems, strategic innovation initiatives and priority projects aligned with Ghana’s development goals.

Mahama also urged researchers and academic institutions to focus on solution-driven work that can inform policy, create jobs and improve the lives of Ghanaians.

The Ghana National Research Fund is expected to provide long-term support for research across sectors including science, technology, health, agriculture and the social sciences.

By Blessed EDUAMOAH DADZIE