UHAS and NVI Forge Strategic Alliance to Establish State-of-the-Art Vaccine Research Centre

The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) and the National Vaccine Institute (NVI) are exploring strategic partnerships with GIZ, UNIDO, and the EU to establish a state-of-the-art vaccine research centre at UHAS. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance indigenous vaccine development in Ghana.

At a pivotal meeting on April 3, 2025, UHAS hosted a delegation led by Dr. Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, CEO of the National Vaccine Institute, to explore partnerships for establishing a cutting-edge vaccine research centre. This initiative, backed by GIZ, UNIDO, and the EU, aims to position UHAS as Africa’s leading hub for vaccine development and production.

UHAS and NVI Forge Strategic Alliance to Establish State-of-the-Art Vaccine Research Centre

Accra, Ghana – April 3, 2025 — In a landmark move to bolster vaccine research and production capabilities in Africa, the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) hosted a high-level stakeholder meeting with the National Vaccine Institute (NVI) and representatives from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the European Union (EU). The meeting was held at UHAS’s Central Administration block and focused on exploring a partnership to establish a state-of-the-art vaccine research centre at the UHAS laboratory complex building.

A Visionary Initiative for Vaccine Development

At the heart of the meeting was the shared vision to leverage UHAS’s extensive vaccine research expertise and secure funding for a world-class vaccine research centre. The centre is envisioned to be the largest of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, offering cutting-edge facilities and specialized training that will transform vaccine development and production in Ghana.

Professor Lydia Aziato, the Vice Chancellor of UHAS, welcomed the distinguished guests with optimism, emphasizing that the collaboration aligns with the government’s commitment to inclusive, high-quality healthcare. She highlighted UHAS’s impressive academic programmes and research achievements, noting that the university is well-positioned to serve as a critical hub for vaccine development in Africa.

Key Highlights of the Stakeholder Meeting

• Warm Reception and Collaborative Spirit:
  The meeting began with Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, Executive Director of GNACOPS, congratulating the newly appointed Inspector General of Schools, Prof. Azeko Salifu Tahiru (PhD), although this part of the dialogue was separately noted. Here, the focus was on the commitment to partnership and progress in vaccine research.
  Dr. Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, CEO of the National Vaccine Institute (NVI), led the delegation and reiterated NVI’s readiness to support UHAS’s aspirations for a state-of-the-art facility.
• Exploring Funding and Technical Support:
  Representatives from GIZ, UNIDO, and the EU engaged in discussions regarding potential funding opportunities and technical support for the proposed research centre.
  The EU Representative, Ms. Juliet Dekuo, pledged to initiate further discussions within her organization regarding financial support. Meanwhile, Madam Enyo Nudo from UNIDO expressed eagerness to expedite the PharmaVax project agreement with UHAS, which could provide crucial initial funding for the centre.
• Leveraging Existing Facilities:
  The Vice Chancellor showcased UHAS’s state-of-the-art laboratory complex currently under construction, which is earmarked for the vaccine research centre. In addition, the delegation toured the university’s simulation centre—recognized as the largest in West Africa and part of the China-aided Phase 2 project—which further demonstrated UHAS’s capacity for advanced research and training.
• Expert Presentations and Future Plans:
  The UHAS Vaccine Research Team, represented by Dr. Cornelius Dodoo, delivered a comprehensive presentation titled “The Role of UHAS in National Efforts Towards Vaccine Development and Production.”
  Senior vaccine researchers, including Professor Peter Atadja and Professor Theophilus Adiku, provided additional insights on how the collective expertise at UHAS can drive Ghana’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in vaccine development before 2030.

The Strategic Importance of the Vaccine Research Centre

The proposed state-of-the-art vaccine research centre is seen as a crucial step in boosting Ghana’s capacity for indigenous vaccine development and manufacturing. With Ghana anticipated to become a middle-income country by 2030—potentially limiting its eligibility for support from initiatives like Gavi—the need for a robust local vaccine production capability is more urgent than ever.

Key benefits include:

• Enhanced Research and Innovation:
  The centre will facilitate cutting-edge research in vaccine development, positioning Ghana as a leader in healthcare innovation in the region.
• Capacity Building and Training:
  Specialized training programmes in vaccine development and production will empower local scientists and researchers, contributing to sustainable growth in the healthcare sector.
• Reduction in Dependency on Imports:
  By developing indigenous vaccine production capabilities, Ghana can reduce its heavy reliance on imported vaccines, ensuring a more resilient healthcare system.
• Boost to National and Regional Health Security:
  With improved vaccine production and research capabilities, Ghana will be better prepared to respond to public health emergencies, safeguarding the well-being of its citizens and the region.

Collaborative Partnerships for a Brighter Future

The meeting highlighted the critical role of collaborative partnerships in transforming healthcare. UHAS’s partnership with the National Vaccine Institute, along with support from international organizations like GIZ, UNIDO, and the EU, is expected to drive significant advancements in vaccine research and production.

Madam Enyo Nudo from UNIDO stressed the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern research methods, suggesting potential collaboration with the UHAS Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM). This innovative approach could further enrich the research capabilities of the proposed centre.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for Vaccine Innovation in Africa

The strategic meeting at UHAS marks a pivotal step towards establishing a state-of-the-art vaccine research centre that could redefine healthcare in Ghana and beyond. With a shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation, UHAS, NVI, and their international partners are poised to transform vaccine development in Africa. This initiative not only aims to bolster national health security but also to set a new benchmark for research and capacity building in the continent.

As discussions progress and partnerships solidify, the vision of a cutting-edge vaccine research centre at UHAS is set to become a reality, paving the way for a healthier and more self-reliant Africa.

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