CANR and University of Tennessee Forge Partnership for Research Collaboration

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) has hosted a delegation from the University of Tennessee, following an earlier visit by the Provost of the College to the United States.

The visit forms part of efforts to establish a strategic framework aimed at driving innovation and commercialization across Ghana.

The initiative seeks to connect universities nationwide, channel investments into university-led research, and stimulate collaboration between academia, industry, and development partners.

Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation at Tennessee State University, Mr. Robert Turner, highlighted the vision behind the proposal.

 “We aim to create a centralized network of universities, with KNUST serving as the central hub, to lead cutting-edge research and innovation. By attracting investments from government, private sector entities, NGOs, and development partners, we can accelerate the journey from research to market,” he stated.

He explained that the goal is to translate research outputs into market-ready solutions across regions such as Volta, Greater Accra, Cape Coast, and Tamale.

 “We want to invest not just for prestige or short-term financial gains, but to build new businesses, create sustainable jobs, and enhance the flow of resources and capital within communities,” he added.

The initiative also envisions the creation of new technology ventures, meaningful employment opportunities, and long-term partnerships that position Ghana, and eventually other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, as attractive destinations for risk capital and innovation.

During the visit, the delegation engaged with heads of departments and faculty deans to explore and deliberate on potential areas of collaboration in research, technology transfer, and student exchange programmes.

Provost of the College, Professor Dadson Awunyo-Vitor, expressed appreciation to the delegation for their visit and reaffirmed the College’s commitment to building a strong partnership. Mr. Turner was accompanied by Frederick Cawthon,  CEO of Biocatalysis Creations.