The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) and the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) have hosted the launch of the University of Ghana (UG)–University of Manchester (UoM) Dual PhD Award programme, a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening doctoral training and advancing equitable research partnerships.
The programme, developed in partnership with the Global Development Institute (GDI), provides PhD students with joint supervision from faculty at both institutions, access to international research networks, and opportunities for experiential learning through collaborative projects and exchange visits. ISSER and UGBS will serve as the initial implementing institutions, working closely with the University of Manchester to deliver the programme.
Speaking at the launch, ISSER Director, Prof. Robert Darko Osei, described the initiative as a significant step in formalising UG’s longstanding collaboration with GDI. “This partnership enhances doctoral training by offering students broader supervision, international exposure, and practical research experience – all essential for a high-quality PhD training. It aligns very strongly with three of the University of Ghana's strategic priorities on transformative student experiences, impactful research, and partnerships and engagements,” he said.
The Dual PhD programme also reflects a shared commitment by UG and the University of Manchester to deepen equitable collaboration. As part of this, doctoral research will focus on key global development challenges, including digital transformation and green energy transitions—areas where both institutions have strong expertise.
Prof. Elsie Effah Kauffman, Dean of the School of Engineering Science at UG, highlighted the importance of partnerships in advancing the University of Ghana's vision, noting that the initiative directly supports its strategic priority on engagement and partnerships.
Prof. Aheto, representing the Dean of the UG International Programmes Office (IPO), shared additional perspectives on equitable collaboration through a presentation he delivered at the function. The presentation outlined UG's evolving approach to partnerships, anchored in co-creation of knowledge, shared leadership, capacity strengthening, and sustainability.
From the University of Manchester, Prof. Stephen Flint, Associate Vice-President International, highlighted the role of global engagement in UoM's ten-year strategy, while Prof. Sam Hickey, Head of the Global Development Institute, discussed UoM's Africa Strategy and prospects for deepened research collaboration.
Held on 26 March 2026 at ISSER under the theme “Equitable Partnerships: From Rhetoric to Reality,” the launch provided a platform for discussions on co-supervision arrangements, monitoring and governance structures, and implementation processes. Academics from ISSER, UGBS, and other units from the University of Ghana, alongside colleagues from the University of Manchester, contributed insights to support the programme rollout.
As part of the visit, the University of Manchester team also hosted a PhD masterclass for doctoral students on 27 March, focusing on research design, academic writing, and publication. The session offered participants a preview of the collaborative learning environment the programme is expected to deliver.
The first cohort of students for the University of Ghana–University of Manchester Dual PhD Award programme is expected to begin in the 2027/28 academic year, with further details on applications to be announced.
- Log in to post comments