President Mahama highlights Ghana’s future collaboration with Singapore’s innovation ecosystems

In a diplomatic visit aimed at strengthening Ghana’s educational and innovation sectors, President John Mahama shared insights gained from his recent trip to Singapore during the Africa Singapore Business Forum on Tuesday.

Following his keynote address at the forum, President Mahama toured the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), where he explored their successful applied-learning model and robust university–industry partnerships.

SIT’s integrated approach combines work and study, emphasizing applied research that directly impacts business and industry.

The President praised the new SIT campus located within the Punggol Digital District, which exemplifies the effective integration of academia, industry, and community to prepare students for the evolving workforce.

Additionally, President Mahama visited Biopolis, Singapore’s premier biomedical research hub, that fosters collaboration across public and private sectors throughout the entire life sciences R&D pipeline.

The facility’s approach to innovation and economic growth through coordinated public–private efforts resonated with the President, highlighting the importance of such partnerships for Ghana’s development.

Key lessons from the visit included the necessity of deepening university, industry collaborations to produce graduates who are both work-ready and future-ready.

He recalled the initiative by Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, then Minister of Education, to understand the needs of Ghana’s educational institutions and industry, emphasizing that these efforts must continue.

President Mahama stressed the importance of encouraging applied learning, internships, and programs aligned with national priorities, as well as strengthening public–private partnerships in life sciences and biotechnology.

He underscored that research should focus on solutions that generate jobs and improve livelihoods.

Expressing gratitude to his hosts at SIT and Biopolis for their hospitality and insights, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to fostering partnerships that will accelerate advancements in higher education, innovation, and healthcare, ultimately contributing to sustainable national development.