$30m China grant insufficient for Damongo university project – Haruna Iddrisu

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has revealed that the US$30 million grant from China for the proposed University of Science and Technology in Damongo is insufficient to fully finance the project. During a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Cong Song, discussions continued on advancing the project. The Ghanaian government secured the grant last year to kickstart the construction of the university.

However, Iddrisu emphasized that establishing and equipping a new university would require over US$100 million. He urged for additional financial support and stronger partnerships to complete the project and provide necessary infrastructure and facilities. The university is expected to become a center of excellence in Science, Technology, Robotics, Digital Sciences, and Artificial Intelligence.

Iddrisu highlighted that the institution would contribute to expanding access to quality tertiary education and equipping students with relevant skills for the evolving global economy.

The Education Minister also disclosed that the government has plans to establish universities in regions across the country that currently lack one. This initiative aims to address disparities in access to tertiary education and promote balanced national development. Ambassador Cong Song expressed admiration for Iddrisu's leadership and commitment to advancing Ghana's education transformation agenda.

He reaffirmed the significance of Ghana-China cooperation in supporting educational development and strengthening bilateral relations. The meeting was part of ongoing efforts to mobilize resources and partnerships necessary to advance the Damongo University project.