York, United Kingdom - The Vice-Chancellor of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, has held a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of York, Prof. Charlie Jeffery, to explore areas of collaboration, particularly in research funding. The meeting focused on leveraging the University of York's extensive expertise in research to support UDS’s newly launched $100,000 Research Fund.

The University of York, renowned for its research excellence, has consistently secured competitive research funding from global institutions, including the European Research Council, UK Research and Innovation, and private foundations. This reputation positions the institution as an ideal partner for UDS, which seeks to elevate its research profile and contribute meaningfully to solving developmental challenges.

UDS RESEARCH FUND: A VISION FOR IMPACT
Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, during the discussions, highlighted the significance of the $100,000 UDS Research Fund, which was recently launched under his leadership. "The fund aims to provide seed grants to faculty and students, fostering innovative research that addresses critical societal issues such as climate change, health, food security, and sustainable development," he explained. He added that the initiative is part of UDS’s broader mission to promote research that directly impacts communities in northern Ghana and beyond.

AN APPEAL FOR SUPPORT
In his remarks, Prof. Al-hassan appealed to the University of York to partner with UDS in supporting the Research Fund. "As a university committed to development-oriented research, UDS sees an opportunity to collaborate with the University of York to build capacity, enhance knowledge exchange, and secure additional funding for impactful research projects," he stated. He emphasized that such a partnership would not only benefit UDS but also provide York scholars with unique opportunities to engage in cross-continental research with practical outcomes.

A POSITIVE RESPONSE FROM YORK
In response, Prof. Charlie Jeffery commended UDS for its visionary approach to research and its focus on addressing pressing societal challenges. "The University of York is deeply committed to fostering global partnerships that advance research for the common good," he said. While agreeing in principle to the request, he called for detailed documentation to be provided to facilitate the drafting of a formal agreement. "We are keen to explore how our institutions can collaborate effectively, particularly in areas where our research priorities align," Prof. Jeffery added.

A GROWING RELATIONSHIP
The meeting marks another milestone in the long-standing relationship between UDS and the University of York. The collaboration began over two decades ago, with joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and student capacity-building programs. The partnership has been instrumental in strengthening UDS's academic and research frameworks, while providing York scholars and students with meaningful engagement in development-focused initiatives in Africa.

As discussions progress, this potential collaboration on the UDS Research Fund is expected to open new avenues for impactful research and further solidify the bond between the two institutions. Both Vice-Chancellors expressed optimism about the future, envisioning a partnership that not only advances research but also enhances development outcomes for communities in Ghana and beyond.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)