Stakeholders in academia and industry have called for increased investment in research, innovation and collaboration as critical tools for promoting equitable development and addressing Africa’s complex social and economic challenges.
The call was made during the 2026 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa celebration organised by the College of Humanities at the University of Ghana under the theme: “Reimagining Equitable Development in the Humanities: Research, Innovation, and Collaboration.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Benjamin Dzoboku, Managing Director of Republic Bank PLC (Ghana), stressed that research remains one of the most effective instruments for solving contemporary challenges across various sectors of society.
According to him, evidence-based knowledge is essential for informed decision-making and the development of sustainable solutions in governance, education, business, culture and public policy.
“Research remains one of the most powerful tools for addressing the challenges of our time,” he stated, adding that the true value of knowledge is realised when it is shared and applied to improve society.
Dr. Dzoboku underscored the importance of building strong partnerships among universities, industry players, governments, communities and international organisations to ensure that research findings translate into practical interventions and policy reforms.
He noted that collaboration helps bridge the gap between academic research and real-world development needs, enabling innovations to have a direct impact on people’s lives.
The Republic Bank Managing Director said the banking institution remained committed to supporting initiatives that promote education, innovation and youth empowerment as part of its contribution to national development.
He called for renewed efforts to strengthen partnerships and increase investments in knowledge generation to accelerate progress and create more inclusive opportunities across the continent.
Also speaking at the event, Professor Joseph Awetori Yaro, Provost of the College of Humanities, highlighted the critical role of the humanities and social sciences in shaping development discourse and addressing emerging societal challenges.
He noted that at a time when countries are confronting inequality, technological disruptions and social fragmentation, there is a growing need to redefine development beyond economic indicators.
According to him, development should be measured by its ability to promote human dignity, social justice, democratic participation, cultural preservation and equal opportunities for all citizens.
Prof. Yaro argued that the humanities and social sciences provide valuable insights into the human dimensions of development and help societies critically examine issues such as empowerment, decolonisation of knowledge and social inclusion.
He explained that these disciplines contribute significantly to the design of alternative development pathways and help shape a more equitable future.
“The humanities do not merely support development; they help redefine its purpose and direction,” he remarked.
The event also highlighted Africa’s rich intellectual heritage and the continent’s contributions to global knowledge production.
The Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa is commemorated annually on June 30 following a resolution adopted by the African Union in 1987 to promote science, technology, innovation and research as key drivers of sustainable development across the continent.
Participants at the celebration reaffirmed the need for stronger cooperation among institutions, policymakers and the private sector to ensure that research outcomes contribute effectively to national and continental development goals.
They expressed optimism that sustained investment in research and innovation would help Africa develop home-grown solutions to its challenges while enhancing competitiveness and improving the quality of life for its people.
