Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, on Wednesday called for increased financial support and stronger partnerships to ensure the successful completion of the University of Science and Technology at Damango in the Savannah Region.

Mr Iddrisu said the estimated amount of the project would cost more than $100 million with the required infrastructure, equipment and facilities.

The Minister made the call when he met with Mr Cong Song, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, to discuss the progress and prospects of the proposed university.

The project received a major boost last year when the China Government secured a US$30 million grant to support the commencement of construction.

Mr Iddrisu said the amount would not be enough to complete and equip the institution.

The proposed university was envisioned as a centre of excellence in Science and Technology, Robotics, Digital Sciences and Artificial Intelligence, among other emerging areas critical to Ghana’s future development.

He explained that the focus on science, technology and emerging disciplines was intended to equip young Ghanaians with the skills needed to compete effectively in an increasingly digital and technology-driven global economy.

Mr Iddrisu disclosed that the government had a broader strategy to establish universities in regions across the country that currently lacked such institutions.

He said the initiative formed part of efforts to expand access to quality tertiary education while promoting balanced national development and reducing disparities in educational opportunities across the country.

The Chinese Ambassador commended the Minister for his leadership and commitment to transforming Ghana’s education sector.

He reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Ghana in education and other areas of mutual interest, stressing the importance of bilateral partnerships in advancing educational development.

The proposed university is expected to contribute to the expansion of tertiary education in the Savannah Region while providing specialised training in science, technology and other emerging fields.