Abstract

The University of Ghana (UG) has pursued a research-intensive agenda over the past decade (2014-2024). During the period, several groundbreaking collaborative research was conducted by faculty culminating in various publications and publication impact. One would have expected this to also translate into a significant number of invention disclosures, patent applications and granted patents, to facilitate knowledge valorization through licensing agreements, assignments and startup formation. However, this has not been the case. Less than thirty disclosures were recorded during the period, resulting in three patent applications of which one was granted. No “formal” licensing or assignment agreement has been executed. Nonetheless, a recent collaborative initiative to support student ventures has facilitated formation of some student-led startups. Historically, UG's promotion criteria has emphasized publications, and this accounts for the relatively large volumes of publications recorded compared to the number of disclosures, patent applications and grants, and the valorization of knowledge, particularly, through technology transfer. This notwithstanding, knowledge commercialisation through public policy engagement, development and influence, as well as consultancy services is common at the University. The absence of an appropriate framework, however, limits the University’s ability to capitalize on the gains from consultancy services. This presentation will highlight the various approaches to knowledge valorization at UG that have enabled the transformation of research outputs into tangible benefits to foster sustainable growth and societal advancements. It will enumerate on the challenges that impede the commercialisation of knowledge, highlight the reflections and lessons learned during the period. Further, it will expound on some successful initiatives and recommendations by the technology transfer office, which have informed some policy changes by the University. It will also highlight some strategies that can be adopted to maximize the gains from technology transfer and consultancy services. This is expected to impact positively on the University’s efforts to valorize knowledge particularly through technology transfer and consultancy. This presentation will equip early and mid-career research and innovation managers with relevant insights and empower them as agents of change to champion strategies to enhance knowledge valorization in their respective institutions and contribute to a sustainable future for the profession and for society.