Accra: The Social Investment Fund (SIF) Wednesday handed over a project site for constructing a Biotechnology Research Centre at the University of Ghana, to contractors.
According to Ghana News Agency, the facility is part of the Post COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project (PSDPEP), a five-year Government of Ghana initiative funded by the African Development Bank. PSDPEP aims to strengthen skills development, research capacity, and productivity, particularly in the health and science sectors.
The Research Centre, to be constructed by Bawahuud Limited, is expected to be completed within 12 months. It will include modern laboratories, offices, classrooms, and infrastructure to support training and innovation in biotechnology. Mr. Abass Nurudeen, CEO of SIF, stated the handing over marked a shift from planning to implementation under PSDPEP. He emphasized the importance of the project in strengthening Ghana's health sector and enhancing research capacity.
Mr. Nurudeen urged contractors to adhere to approved designs, timelines, and quality standards, emphasizing the need for timely completion as the project nears its closing period. He assured that SIF, with the University of Ghana, would provide oversight to ensure successful delivery and mentioned a potential second phase of PSDPEP focusing on biotechnology.
Prof. Kwame Offei, Founding Director of the Biotechnology Centre, highlighted the new facility's role in expanding training and research capacity. He noted the need for continuous investment in biotechnology to address emerging challenges and close gaps in Ghana's research landscape, particularly in genomic research.
Prof. Sandow Mark Yidana, Provost of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, expressed gratitude to SIF and partners, describing the project as aligned with the University's strategic plan for impactful research. He indicated the Centre's significance for Ghana and the West African sub-region, given the limited advanced biotechnology facilities.
Mr. Daniel Asare Amoako, Project Manager for the Research Centre, assured stakeholders of the project's timely completion and adherence to high-quality standards. The PSDPEP, set for completion in 2027, will also support constructing research and skills development centres in nursing, midwifery, and microbiology at the University of Ghana.