The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, and the Ghana Institute of Procurement and Supply (GIPS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Industry-Academia Collaboration. The signing ceremony, held at the Council Chamber of the University, aimed to foster a robust partnership between the two institutions.
According to Mr. Simon Annan, the President of GIPS, the MoU seeks to formalise their partnership, serving as a foundation for future collaboration and knowledge exchange. He expressed his gratitude to the University and underscored how the partnership aligns with KNUST's core mission of collaborating with industry leaders. Mr. Annan stressed that the right partnerships could enhance visibility and awareness, and the MoU aims to achieve such objective. He emphasised the belief that a reputable institution like KNUST offers a platform for industry and academia to share knowledge, fostering ethical standards and professionalism in both students and practitioners.
Mr. Annan outlined the essential role of procurement and supply chain management in local and regional industrialisation. He added that Ghana's socioeconomic development hinges on recognising the value of procurement in enhancing stakeholder values throughout the supply chain. He believes that this profession can support the Government of Ghana in areas such as budget execution, value for money, digitisation and promoting local participation. Mr. Annan also discussed the negative perception of procurement and the need for regulation and certification of professionals in Ghana. To address this, he disclosed that GIPS has drafted a procurement and supply chain practice bill and is collaborating with stakeholders, including KNUST, to facilitate its passage.
Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, emphasised the importance of partnering with industry players for training and research, especially in grooming 21st-century professionals. She highlighted the vital role of procurement in all institutions and expressed excitement about the potential benefits the collaboration could bring to the country and the sub-region. ‘We are glad to join hands with you to work together to serve humanity,’ she added.
The Head of the Department of Construction Technology and Management, Professor Theophilus Adjei-Kumi, also stated that his Department shares a common vision in the areas of research, professionalism, and capacity building within the field of procurement and supply chain management. He further explained that the MoU would facilitate collaboration between both parties to actively pursue and promote transformation, inclusive growth, and socio-economic development in Ghana and across Africa.
Accompanying Mr. Annan from GIPS were Professor Douglas Boateng, a Distinguished Fellow of GIPS; Dr. William Oppong, Vice President of GIPS; Ms. Celestina Djane, Executive Secretary; and Makafui Agboyi, Director of Membership at GIPS.
