Ayorkor Botchwey Advocates for Partnerships Among Tertiary Institutions

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Ghana’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has urged the need for strong partnerships among tertiary institutions in order to ensure their competitiveness and ability to address global challenges. Speaking on the second day of the 2024 Congregation of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Botchwey acknowledged the evolving nature of tertiary education, which has transitioned from a traditional academic model to a globally interconnected and dynamic system. In light of this evolution, she emphasized that collaboration among institutions has become increasingly crucial for driving innovation, advancing research, and addressing key developmental needs, particularly in an era marked by rapid globalization, technological advancements, and societal challenges such as artificial intelligence.

Botchwey, who will soon assume the role of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, stressed the importance of forging partnerships between higher learning institutions, industries, governments, and international organizations. She noted that these partnerships create synergies that allow tertiary institutions to remain relevant and responsive to the changing needs of society. According to her, collaboration between these various sectors leads to enhanced curricula, more funding for research, expanded internship opportunities, and a greater exchange of knowledge. These elements, she explained, are essential in preparing students to become leaders who are equipped to solve problems and drive progress.

Furthermore, such partnerships also facilitate student and faculty exchanges, which foster cultural integration and expose participants to diverse global perspectives, Botchwey pointed out. She specifically commended GIMPA for its embrace of these partnerships and highlighted the institution’s role in contributing to national and global development. Over the years, she said, GIMPA has been instrumental in building the capacity of individuals and institutions, particularly within Ghana’s public and civil service sectors.

As a center of academic and professional excellence, GIMPA has been a pivotal force in training leaders, administrators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, making significant contributions to Ghana’s nation-building efforts. Botchwey further explained that through its innovative programs, professional training, and cutting-edge consultancy services, GIMPA has consistently provided solutions to governance, leadership, and management challenges within the country. The institution has empowered public servants with the tools needed to perform their duties effectively and efficiently, which has helped strengthen Ghana’s institutions and improve service delivery across the nation, she added.

Botchwey also drew attention to GIMPA’s specialized training programs, which have been designed for various government arms, including the executive, legislative, judicial, and public sector agencies. Additionally, GIMPA has been instrumental in providing capacity-building opportunities for the private sector by offering tailored programs that address the specific needs of industries. Through its consultancy services, GIMPA has played an advisory role in shaping policies and implementing best practices, which have contributed to sustainable economic growth and development.

The former minister also recognized the strong and productive relationship that has developed between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and GIMPA. She emphasized that this collaboration has been invaluable in furthering both Ghana’s global standing and GIMPA’s leadership role in Africa.

During the event, the Rector of GIMPA, Professor Samuel Kwaku Bonsu, also spoke about the institution’s ongoing efforts to foster partnerships across Africa. He highlighted the positive outcomes of GIMPA’s collaborations with countries such as The Gambia, Liberia, Rwanda, and Sudan. These partnerships, he said, extend beyond student exchanges and focus on advancing mutual developmental goals.

Bonsu announced that GIMPA’s Masters of Public Sector Management program would be offered in The Gambia next year. He also mentioned a new project with the European Union and the Government of Lesotho, aimed at transforming their public sector through a sister institution. Moreover, GIMPA is in various stages of developing collaborative projects with the governments of Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Both Botchwey and Professor Bonsu emphasized the significance of partnerships between tertiary institutions, governments, industries, and international bodies in fostering sustainable development. By continuing to collaborate, tertiary institutions can ensure their education systems remain responsive and relevant, thus equipping future leaders to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.