Scientific human resource for national development in Ghana: Issues and challenges

Abstract

Studies have established that science and technology applications have culminated in the discovery of new products, new processes, improved and faster services, better ways of solving human and environmental challenges as well as opportunities for new jobs. Therefore, understanding and use of scientific knowledge is critical in responding to national development needs and challenges. The paper provides evidence of Ghana's scientific and technological responsiveness to leveraging scientific human potentials in order to confront societal and development challenges. A cross sectional survey was conducted in 33 public and private tertiary institutions in Ghana. Census was used to select public institutions while private institutions were purposively selected to assess science student enrolment, science academic staff, science infrastructure including laboratories, as well as funding sources for research activities. The results observed inadequate scientific infrastructure in tertiary institutions. Master’s degree holders constitute the majority of the science academic staff. Total PhD enrolment in public tertiary institutions increased by 86.7%, while PhD enrolment in science programmes decreased by 22.3% from 2013 to 2015. The paper recommends a holistic approach to tertiary level scientific education to enhance national development in Ghana.