UNCTAD convenes 2nd national workshop to advance the development of world-class STI parks in Ghana

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), in collaboration with partners recently  convened  a three-day multi-stakeholder workshop on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Park Policies and Practices, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, academia, and entrepreneurs to advance the development of world-class STI parks in Ghana.

Financed by the UN Subfund of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development under the UN Peace and Development Fund, the workshop aims to build consensus among stakeholders, develop a national roadmap and action plan aligned with national innovation priorities.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of STI for Development, Division on Technology and Logistics at UNCTAD, Ms. Liping Zhang noted that while the first workshop focused on training, this second one is centered on consensus building. “The essential objective of our project is to enhance the capacity of beneficiary countries in harnessing the power of STI through STI parks and achieve sustainable development.”

The Director of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research – Science and Technology Policy Research Institute (CSIR-STEPRI), Dr. Wilhelmina Quaye, emphasized the need for investment in STI infrastructure and digital connectivity. She called for stronger linkages between universities, research institutes, and industry, inclusive innovation for youth and women entrepreneurs, and greater international partnerships for technical assistance and funding.

Delivering an address on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Zia Choudhury, the Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, Ms. Roza Choibeava, touched on the critical role of science, technology and innovation in advancing inclusive and sustainable development. She stressed the importance of both private sector involvement and government leadership in STI park development.

 “The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023 to 2025 recognizes innovation, decent work and environmental sustainability as shared priorities. This initiative on STI parks supports those aims by contributing to economic diversification, strengthening skills and knowledge and encouraging collaboration across sectors.”

The Principal Research Officer at the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, Mr. Wilfred Edem Dennis, highlighted the pivotal role of local expertise in advancing the STI park initiative. “Ghana's pursuit of sustainable development hinges on the strategic application of science, technology and innovation… the STI park project aligns squarely with government’s broader economic transformation and job creation agenda,” he said.

Through expert presentations, case studies, and interactive discussions, participants identified challenges, proposed solutions, and strengthened partnerships to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of STI parks in Ghana.