President John Dramani Mahama has inspected the newly completed laboratory complex at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS).
He described the facility as a major boost to Ghana’s health research and scientific innovation agenda.
This formed part of his two-day Resetting Ghana Tour of the Volta Region, which started on Thursday July 16.
Reflecting on the project’s history, the President noted that construction began in 2014 but experienced significant delays before reaching completion. He observed that prolonged implementation periods often lead to increased project costs, stressing the importance of delivering public infrastructure within planned timelines.
President Mahama reiterated Government’s vision of transforming UHAS into a leading centre of excellence for health sciences education, research, and innovation in Africa. He emphasised that modern research institutions require world-class facilities and expressed satisfaction that the university now possesses what is believed to be one of the largest laboratory complexes in the sub-region.
The President highlighted the facility’s advanced pathogen research and vaccine development capabilities, noting that it will complement the work of the National Vaccine Institute and strengthen Ghana’s capacity to undertake cutting-edge medical research, develop local solutions to health challenges, and enhance national health security.
He stated that the laboratory complex positions UHAS to play a more significant role in scientific discovery, disease surveillance, and vaccine research while contributing to broader efforts aimed at improving healthcare outcomes across Ghana and the continent.
President Mahama also acknowledged additional infrastructure requirements raised by the university, including student accommodation, lecture facilities, and a modern library. He assured the university community that Government remains committed to addressing these needs through increased investment in educational infrastructure and improved funding support.
According to the President, recent reforms to GETFund financing arrangements will enable greater resources to be channelled into priority projects within tertiary institutions, ensuring that critical infrastructure gaps are gradually addressed.
Paying tribute to the late President Professor John Evans Atta Mills, whose vision led to the establishment of UHAS, President Mahama expressed confidence that the institution is steadily advancing towards becoming a globally recognised centre for health sciences education and research.
The President further disclosed that Government is considering improvements to the university’s internal road network to complement ongoing infrastructure development and create a more conducive environment for teaching, learning, innovation, and research.
