Representatives from the University of Environment and Sustainable Development and RWTH Aachen University have shared insights into the impact of academic collaboration facilitated by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

The DAAD hosted a matchmaking event in Accra, bringing together a delegation of 21 senior leaders from German universities and representatives from a wide range of Ghanaian higher education institutions.

The event formed part of a week-long visit aimed at strengthening academic cooperation between Germany and Ghana.

Among the participating institutions were the University of Environment and Sustainable Development in Ghana and RWTH Aachen University in Germany. Both universities took part in discussions on shared research interests and explored opportunities for collaboration in areas including joint research, postgraduate training, student exchange and innovation.

Speaking to JoyNews, Professor Shine Francis Gbedemah of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development said the engagement offered valuable exposure for the relatively young institution.

“We’re the youngest university in Ghana — just six years old. This is an opportunity for us to learn from international partners from Germany. We have shown them what we have, and they have also shared what they can offer and how we can complement each other. That is very important for us as a young university.”

Thomas Trännapp of RWTH Aachen University also emphasised the importance of mutual learning.

“I wanted to understand how Ghana and its research institutions operate. We are very interested in new collaborations in Africa, and Ghana is a strong partner for us as a technical university. I have learned a lot about the expertise here and the challenges as well. This is valuable because it helps us understand how best we can work together.”

Organisers say the event underscores the growing importance of academic partnerships between Ghana and Germany, particularly as institutions seek innovative ways to collaborate in research and training.

It also highlighted the role of the DAAD Regional Office in Accra, which supports cooperation between German and West African universities by providing guidance on funding opportunities, facilitating partnerships, and advising students and researchers on study and research opportunities in Germany.