UG and National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), Liberia Sign MoU to Build Capacity in Fisheries Management
The University of Ghana and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), Liberia, have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen ties in developing capacity in fisheries management, research and education. This signifies the value of partnerships in capacity building.
In his remarks, Hon. Augustine M. Manoballah, Deputy Director General for Administration expressed his joy to lead his team to negotiate an agreement for collaborative training purposes. According to him, NaFAA is satisfied and ready to sign the MoU, marking its first time of entering into this type of agreement.
He added that extensive discussions took place regarding the training of more than 20 managers and scientists. The aim of the training is to enhance participants’ ability to effectively manage and sustain fishery resources, ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability of the industry.
He conveyed his deep gratitude for the collaborative efforts and stressed the critical importance of upholding and adhering to stringent standards throughout the entire collaboration process. These high standards, he stated, are vital for ensuring the success and integrity of the partnership and for delivering the best possible outcomes for all involved parties.
Hon. Manoballah outlined the various potential benefits the shared partnership could bring, including opportunities for enhanced research, knowledge exchange and the development of innovative solutions in the field of fishery management.
Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro-VC (ASA), emphasised the importance of South-South alliances, highlighting the significance of partnering with non-academic entities.
He mentioned this initiative is designed to advance training, foster capacity building and facilitate job creation in the field of marine and fisheries science.
‘The overarching objective is to bolster the institution's competitive edge within the continent,’ Prof. Awandare stated.
Dr. Benjamin Osei Botwe, Head of the Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, UG, in his remarks, mentioned that the Department is primarily concerned with the training and development of capacity in the area of Marine Science and fisheries resources.
He recounted that, over the years, the trained students are not only from Ghana but from the sub-region, including Nigeria and Liberia.
‘Under this cooperation, it is expected that the Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences will help develop capacity for NaFAA by providing education, training, research and other areas that will be relevant. We are open to partnerships which align with the Vice-Chancellor's Key Strategic Objectives,’ he mentioned.
Prof. Eric Osei-Assibey, Dean of International Office, UG, explained that the partnership aligns perfectly with the University's internationalisation strategy.
‘The University aims to become the institution of choice for partnerships and to promote cutting-edge research and teaching. Additionally, there is a deliberate effort to foster regional collaboration and support among institutions,’ he clarified.
He further acknowledged the mutual support among African institutions. He pledged the University's commitment to playing a pivotal role in providing support for regional initiatives.
Prof. Awandare signed the MoU on behalf of UG, while Hon. Manoballah, Deputy Director General for Administration at the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, signed on behalf of NaFAA.
The session was moderated by Dr. Elizier Taiba Ameyaw-Buronyah, Director of the University's Public Affairs Directorate.
Also in attendance were Mr. Siekula T. Vannie, Director, Human Resources and Manpower Development, NaFAA; Samuel T. Tugba, NaFAA Director/Admin.; Mr. Mawusi Kofi Glozah, Senior Assistant Registrar, Office of the Pro-VC; Mr. Isaac Ato-Brown, Office of Legal Counsel and some faculty from the Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences.
