President John Dramani Mahama has called for a shift in Ghana's development strategy, arguing that the country's future growth and competitiveness will depend increasingly on innovation, knowledge creation and scientific research rather than its natural resources.

Speaking at the launch of the Ghana National Research Fund on Tuesday, June 16, the President stressed the need to place research at the heart of national development efforts, describing it as a critical tool for driving economic transformation and sustainable progress.

He said the establishment of the fund represents a major step toward strengthening Ghana's research and innovation landscape while creating opportunities for evidence-based solutions to national challenges.

According to President Mahama, research must no longer be viewed as a secondary activity but as a strategic investment capable of accelerating economic growth, improving social outcomes and enhancing the country's global competitiveness.

He noted that the dynamics of global development have changed significantly, with nations now competing on the basis of innovation, technological advancement and the ability to generate and apply knowledge effectively.

The President observed that access to natural resources alone is no longer sufficient to guarantee economic success, adding that countries that consistently invest in research, technology and human capital development are outperforming many resource-rich economies.

He emphasized that Ghana must position itself to benefit from the knowledge economy by supporting scientific inquiry, innovation and skills development across key sectors.

The Ghana National Research Fund is expected to provide financial assistance to researchers, universities and innovation-focused initiatives working to address pressing national development needs.

The fund will support research and innovation projects in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, energy, manufacturing and other sectors considered vital to the country's socio-economic advancement.

Government officials believe the initiative will help bridge the gap between academic research and practical development solutions while promoting a culture of innovation to support Ghana's long-term growth agenda.