Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has reaffirmed the government's commitment to research, innovation and knowledge production as key drivers of national development.

Speaking at the 65th anniversary celebration of GIMPA, Mr Debrah said President John Dramani Mahama's administration recognises the importance of investing in knowledge creation to secure Ghana's future.

"In the 21st century, a nation that fails to invest in knowledge production surrenders its future. We cannot build the Ghana we want, a Ghana that is digitally enabled, economically diversified, and globally competitive, without strong institutions that generate relevant research and train the leaders who implement it," he said.

Mr Debrah disclosed that the government has allocated GH¢33.3 million to education in the 2026 budget and is encouraging educational and research institutions to align their activities with the country's digital transformation agenda.

"The government believes in what this centre represents. Research can save lives, and knowledge can build nations. We are positioning West Africa as a producer, not just a consumer, of global ideas," he stated.

The Chief of Staff also challenged think tanks and research institutions to ensure that their work remains relevant and contributes to policymaking.

"A think tank's mandate is only as powerful as the quality and relevance of the work it produces, publishes, and convenes. The measure of a think tank that truly serves is when its work finds its way into policy, into parliament, and into the planning offices of West African governments," he said.

Mr Debrah further stressed the need for West Africa to actively participate in the ongoing digital transformation taking place globally.

He pointed to developments in artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, digital financial systems and e-governance as key trends reshaping economies and societies, adding that the region must position itself to take advantage of these opportunities rather than remain a passive observer.