The Office of Grants and Research (OGR), KNUST continues to deepen its global research footprint, recently welcoming Professor Alexander Kabla from the University of Cambridge. The visit served to celebrate the success of ongoing research and to solidify plans for upcoming research initiatives.
Strengthening existing ties, Prof. Kabla’s visit follows a successful two-year Cambridge-Africa collaborative project that is currently coming to a completion. During an earlier visit to the Department of Materials Engineering, Prof. Kabla engaged academic activities, observing student presentations and sharing his extensive expertise through knowledge-sharing sessions earlier in the week.
A central focus of the meeting was a new proposal for the 2026 Joint Initiative for Research Harnessing Disruptive Technologies to Address Global Challenges. This project brings together a multidisciplinary team, including researchers from the University of Cambridge, the University of Quebec, and the Ghana team based at KNUST.
Dr. Henry Agbe from the KNUST Department of Materials Engineering who was also present for the meeting expressed deep gratitude for the OGR’s "11th hour" support during the application process. Even in the face of last-minute institutional requirements, the OGR team swiftly delivered essential documentation and support just before the deadline, enabling the successful submission of the proposal. Prof. Kabla echoed this appreciation, stating that having a "very responsive team" on the administrative and financial side is essential for academics navigating the complexities of international grants.
The OGR team which includes specialists in Grants Management, Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer remain dedicated to supporting researchers throughout the entire project lifecycle. This integrated approach ensures that research activities at KNUST are not only well-supported but also strategically aligned to deliver value for money to funders and impact to society.
As partnerships continue to evolve, the Office of Grants and Research remains central to driving excellence, enabling innovation, and connecting the university to the global research community.