Accra: Loughborough University in the United Kingdom has entered into a strategic partnership with five Ghanaian universities in the field of health and well-being. The participating Ghanaian universities include the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) of the University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), University of Health and Allied Sciences, University for Development Studies (UDS), and Ensign College of Public Health.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Sam Grogan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Student Experience at Loughborough University, announced this collaboration during a media roundtable in Accra. He emphasized that their visit to Ghana was part of efforts to strengthen Loughborough University's connections in Ghana and the wider West African subregion. Prof Grogan highlighted the Loughborough University Strategy 2030, themed 'Creating Better Futures Together', which outlines their strategic priorities for the next decade. He reiterated the significance of partnerships with West African countries, particularly Ghana and Nigeria, in achieving these goals.
In May, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed in the UK between Loughborough University and Ghana's Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment. This aims to fortify the strategic partnership between the university and the ministry. During their recent visit to Ghana, Loughborough University representatives received updates from the Ministry regarding progress so far. Prof Grogan noted that the partnership with Ghana and West Africa at large is envisioned as a long-term collaboration focused on addressing global challenges like climate change, inclusive communities, and healthy living.
Prof Amanda Daley from Loughborough University discussed the establishment of the Centre for Lifestyle Medicine and Behaviour (CLiMB) Ghana. This initiative, funded by the UK Government, aims to identify and evaluate health behaviour interventions and policies to combat chronic diseases. Dr Hibbah Osei-Kwasi emphasized CLiMB Ghana's commitment to supporting healthy lives globally. Additionally, Dr Sola Afolabi highlighted Loughborough University's view of Ghana as a strategic partner for conducting quality research within the country.
