The University of Ghana (UG) has commissioned its Innovation Enclave, a state-of-the-art facility aimed at bridging the gap between academic research and enterprise development, while promoting youth entrepreneurship and technological innovation.
The facility, located at the former Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) Annex, represents a major milestone in the University’s strategy to position itself as a centre for creativity, innovation and practical problem-solving.
The project was delivered through a strong partnership involving the University of Ghana, the Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC), and Imperial College London, with support from both local and international stakeholders.
Speaking at the commissioning, Mr Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, Executive Director of the Kosmos Innovation Center, urged the University to rethink traditional academic structures to better support student entrepreneurs.
He noted that many talented students often face the difficult choice between continuing their education and scaling their businesses, a challenge that could be addressed through flexible academic arrangements.
Mr Gyan-Kesse disclosed that data from KIC-supported startups showed that student-led ventures created an average of eight to 10 jobs each, underscoring their importance in addressing youth unemployment.
“Can the University start thinking about creating special vehicle processes for young entrepreneurs? Let us find ways to support brilliant innovators and push them to succeed for Ghana. These are the people who will make our universities great,” he said.
Responding to the call, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, highlighted the value of sustained partnerships, noting that UG’s collaboration with KIC, which began in 2016, had been built on trust and a shared vision.
She expressed pride in the achievements of UG students on both continental and global platforms, citing successes in areas such as food packaging innovation and competitive debating.
Professor Amfo assured stakeholders of the University’s readiness to adapt its systems to support exceptional student entrepreneurs.
“We have heard your plea and the challenge you have thrown at us to be creative and accommodate such students so they do not drop out,” she said.
She announced that the Pro-Vice-Chancellors responsible for Academic Affairs and Student Affairs would explore modular academic programmes to enable students to combine academic learning with hands-on entrepreneurial experience.
The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the contributions of the KGL Foundation, Nubuke Foundation and Impact Hub Accra in supporting the initiative.
The Innovation Enclave was dedicated as a centre of excellence for innovation in service to humanity and as a catalyst for national development.
International and local partners, including Imperial College London, whose expertise in innovation ecosystems has been instrumental to the project, continue to support the facility.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior University officials, including Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Felix Ankomah Asante, representatives of the French Embassy, and various industry partners.
