In Ghana and much of Africa, political leadership remains largely dominated by individuals with backgrounds in the social sciences. While this is not inherently problematic, it becomes a serious concern when such individuals are appointed to lead science and technology-related ministries without the requisite technical knowledge. This disconnect between leadership and technical expertise has far-reaching implications for national development.
A recent and troubling example came to light during the vetting of a deputy minister-designate for the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. When asked to explain “coding”—a basic but essential concept in today’s digital economy —the nominee struggled to provide an answer. While this may have seemed like a small misstep, it reflects a broader pattern that has existed for far too long in our political system.
Science and research in Ghana have historically played critical roles in addressing national challenges. From agriculture to public health, from water quality to climate change, Ghanaian researchers have produced evidence-based solutions to pressing problems. Unfortunately, these findings are often ignored by decision-makers. The reason? Many political leaders do not fully understand or appreciate scientific research and therefore lack the will to invest in and implement its outcomes.
In many of our universities and research institutions, valuable work is being done that could transform lives. Yet, these research papers often end up gathering dust on shelves or being stored in online repositories, disconnected from the policy processes that could bring them to life. This failure to link research with governance continues to cost the nation dearly.
We must ask ourselves some hard questions: Why are ministries such as Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Communications, and Sanitation often not headed by individuals with relevant expertise? Why are the solutions developed by Ghanaian scientists underutilized in our national planning? What is the long-term cost of ignoring homegrown knowledge?
As a nation seeking to build a knowledge-based economy and meet the Sustainable Development Goals, Ghana must take urgent steps to bridge the gap between science and leadership. We need a new model of governance, one that is informed by data, guided by evidence, and driven by competence.
To address this issue, I propose the following:
1. Appoint Technocrats to Technical Ministries
Ministries that deal with science, technology, innovation, environment, and health must be led by individuals with deep knowledge and practical experience in those fields. Competence must be prioritised over political convenience.
2. Improve Scientific Literacy Among Politicians
Training programmes should be introduced for Members of Parliament and ministers to help them understand key scientific and technological concepts. This will improve policy debates and help foster a more research-informed approach to governance.
3. Bridge the Research-Policy Gap
There must be deliberate institutional mechanisms that link academic research to government policy. This includes creating roles for science-policy liaisons and establishing platforms for scientists to engage with policymakers regularly.
4. Fund and Implement Local Research
The state must invest in research conducted by Ghanaian scientists and ensure that the findings are used to inform development planning at all levels. Locally generated data and innovations are often more relevant and sustainable than imported solutions.
In conclusion, Ghana’s future depends on how well we harness our intellectual and scientific capacity. We can no longer afford to run technical ministries with leaders who lack the tools to understand the sectors they are meant to guide. The stakes are too high, and the challenges too urgent. It is time for a national reflection—and a bold shift toward technocratic governance where expertise is matched with responsibility. The time to act is now.
Written by:
George Afrifa Yamoah (PhD),
Water Research Scientist || [email protected]||
Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute.
