Former University of Ghana (UG) Vice-Chancellor, Emeritus Professor Ernest Aryeetey, has called for a shift in how Ghana’s universities are financed, warning that heavy dependence on government funding is becoming unsustainable.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Ghana Higher Education Summit on 26th August 2026, he urged universities to raise more revenue through research commercialisation, consultancy, philanthropy, industry partnerships, short courses, online programmes and industry-based training.
“Solely relying on government funding would be a risky thing to do. What we need to think about is how to diversify the sources of funding for universities.”
Professor Aryeetey cited university farms and food science departments as areas with commercial potential, suggesting that agricultural products and food innovations could be produced and sold to support institutions.
He stressed, however, that government funding remains essential for critical fields such as healthcare and agriculture.
“Public financing is essential, especially for critical fields like healthcare, agriculture, engineering, educator training, and scientific inquiry.”
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Story by Mardiya Amin Laamoata | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
