The Research Staff Association of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-RSA) is alarmed by the mass exodus of research staff at the Council to foreign countries.

This is primarily attributable to the poor working conditions of the science and research community in the country and the protracted promotion waiting periods.

National President of the Association, Ing. Dr. Shadrack Kwadwo Amponsah says the situation could hinder the accomplishment of the Council’s mandate.

“while we celebrate our achievements, we also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The CSIR is experiencing a concerning increase in the attrition rate of research staff due to factors such as poor conditions of service and long promotion waiting periods. This trend could negatively impact CSIR’s ability to fulfil its mandate,” he said.

Ing. Dr. Amponsah was speaking at the 35th Annual General Meeting of the CSIR-RSA and 6th scientific conference held virtually.

Over the years, the researchers have argued for an upward adjustment in government’s funding for research and development in the country.

This heavily impacts the course of research work in Ghana as the researchers are unable to embark on thorough works to support policy making and development.

National Secretary of the association, Ing Dr. Ephraim Sekyi-Annan called for critical attention to the sector.

“CSIR-RSA appealed to the central government to increase government funding for research and development, upgrade internal publication systems, sponsor PhD programs for staff, and increase the book and research allowance to enhance scientific outputs,” he said.

The inadequacy of the funding has seen researchers seeking external funding sources, but their research independence is not guaranteed.

Ing. Dr. Amponsah highlighted how researchers are unable to conduct scientific research independently as they are influenced by donor agencies owing to the overreliance on external funders.

“The influence of external funding on our research agenda is a growing concern. While we appreciate the support of donor agencies, it is essential to maintain a balance that allows us to pursue research aligned with Ghana's long-term development goals,” he said.

The association is also demanding compensation for their wrongly taxed Provident Fund contributions.

“CSIR Management has informed us that the government is unable to provide this compensation. This news is deeply discouraging and could negatively impact staff morale. We urge CSIR Management to fulfil their promise to help us recover these funds, as we are determined to reclaim what is rightfully ours,” he added.

The event was held on the theme, 'Building a Sustainable Future: Advancing Science and Technology for Food Security, Health, and Economic Development in Ghana’.

The Council is anticipating its continuous role in advancing national development through coordinated scientific research.