Mahama Moves to Revive Abandoned UTAS Laboratory Project

President John Dramani Mahama pledged to complete the abandoned UTAS laboratory complex at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Navrongo. This comes as part of his government's efforts to revive stalled public projects. The project was initiated in 2016 but has since stalled. Mahama emphasized that public funds should not be squandered on abandoned projects and stated that the laboratory would be completed and handed over by 2027.

The new facility will provide state-of-the-art infrastructure for teaching, research, innovation, and practical training at the university. Mahama's commitment to this project aligns with his administration's promise to complete abandoned and stalled public projects, rather than allowing them to deteriorate. During his inspection, Mahama also directed the Ministry of Roads and Highways to include UTAS's request for approximately five kilometers of internal roads in their project inventory, deeming it feasible.

These roads are expected to enhance access and movement within the university, facilitating the development of its facilities. Mahama reiterated his government's commitment to enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, showing support for UTAS's plans to establish a medical school. This medical school aims to bolster Ghana's capacity to train doctors, addressing the ongoing need to increase the country's medical professional workforce.

Mahama's visit to UTAS was part of his tour of the Upper East Region, where he has been inspecting development projects and engaging with stakeholders on the government's development agenda. However, the Jubilee House did not provide details regarding the funding structure, contractor, or the completion cost for the laboratory project.