The Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, has stressed the urgent need for deeper collaboration among government agencies, academia, research institutions, and the private sector to unlock the full potential of innovation for Ghana’s economic development.

Speaking at the launch of the Biannual Environment, Science and Technology Forum (BEST) under the theme “Bridging the Gap to Improve Ghana's Innovation and Research Commercialisation Ecosystem for Economic Development,” Dr. Muhammad expressed concern over the persistent lack of coordination among state institutions.

He noted that this challenge continues to impede the effective implementation of policies and the practical use of research findings.

“Too often, we host conferences and forums, generate brilliant ideas, but fail to act on them,” the Minister said.

“Without a system that ensures follow-through and collaboration, the outcomes of these events risk becoming mere rhetoric.”

Dr. Muhammad highlighted a recent partnership between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Ministry of Education as a shining example of how coordinated efforts can produce meaningful results.

Through the initiative, hygienic, locally produced meals developed by CSIR are set to be incorporated into the national school feeding programme, promoting both nutrition and local industry.

He emphasised that such cross-sector partnerships must be replicated and institutionalised if Ghana is to effectively commercialise research, support innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth.