Former Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Prof. William Otoo Ellis, has underscored the urgency of localized, context-driven solutions for Africa’s health systems.

“This course is more than learning; it’s about building networks, sharing knowledge, and shaping Africa’s healthcare future,” he said.

Prof. Ellis also highlighted the economic potential of a robust clinical research ecosystem in Africa, noting that with the right infrastructure and skills, the continent can attract global research investments, generate employment, and improve access to cutting-edge treatments.

He was speaking at the opening of the Health Industry and Regulatory Affairs short course cohort III, organized by the Africa Health Collaborative at KNUST in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.

The Health Industry and Regulatory Affairs short course is equipping 20 healthcare professionals from across the country with the knowledge and practical skills to improve primary healthcare delivery in their facilities.

The course is spearheaded by the Health Employment Pillar of the Collaborative, led by Dr. Kofi Akohene Mensah.

Prof. Ellis described the training as a transformative journey toward stronger, more equitable health systems.

The Africa Health Collaborative believes in African expertise, innovation, and collaboration. We are not just gaining knowledge; we are creating solutions that will outlast this course and impact our communities,” he added.

Dr. Anthony Nsiah Asare, former Presidential Advisor on Health, also spoke at the event and emphasized the importance of regulatory knowledge in strengthening Ghana’s growing health industry.

He stressed that as the country expands local pharmaceutical production and medical innovation, understanding how medical products are developed, approved, and monitored is essential to ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainable growth.

"Health Industry and Regulatory Affairs provides insight into how medical products are developed, approved, and monitored,” Dr. Nsiah said. “In this era of local pharmaceutical expansion and innovation, understanding these processes is vital for protecting public safety and supporting local enterprise.”

Dr. Yvonne Adongo of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) urged participants to seize the opportunity with dedication. “You are pioneers on Africa’s health research frontier. Your work today will influence policies, clinical trials, and lives tomorrow,” she said. She reaffirmed the FDA’s commitment to fostering an ethical and sustainable research environment in Ghana and beyond.