The Pro Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University (ATU), Engr. Prof. Felix Y. H. Kutsanadzie has urged researchers to form networks and collaborations in the bid to turn ideas into actionable and practical solutions.
He said researchers are born and die after their first research encounter, saying not a physical death but as a result of the challenges and backlash they go through thereafter.
He made the call during the opening ceremony of the 2nd Applied Research and Innovation Conference of Accra Technical University (ARCATU) 2026 in Accra under the theme, “Applied Research and Innovation for Sustainable Resilient Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.”
In attendance were researchers, academics, innovators, industry professionals and students to share research, innovations and practical solutions that address real-world challenges.
The 3-day conference commenced from 16th to 18th September, 2026 created a platform for researchers, industry players and other stakeholders to deliberate, share ideas and discuss research outcomes, innovations and technology to address national and global challenges.
ATU, he said, has the needed tools to conduct applied research that contributes to the development of technologies and a skilled workforce capable of supporting industry for the country’s growth and development.
Turning to the spotlight on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Prof. Kutsanadzie said it is impacting on education, research, communication, healthcare delivery among others and stressed that AI supports sustainable development and growth of human and national endeavors.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor added that AI has contributed to many opportunities and called on researchers to bring to bear innovations from their respective works that is linked to the needs of industries, governments as well as communities.
In a speech read on his behalf, the Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Mr. Julius Debrah, said the ideas shared at the conference will grow into practical solutions to improve lives and move the country forward.
For his part, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr. Samuel George in a statement read on his behalf commended ATU and stakeholders for convening the conference, adding that the event will help translate knowledge, research and technology into solutions to enhance the lives of the citizenry and also support the country’s growth.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Felix Kutsanadzie called for collaboration between academia and policy makers to develop practicable and sustainable solutions to address the country’s developmental challenges, adding that ideas and lessons received be actionable and papers presented must inspire future research.
In a related development, researchers and individuals who have contributed to various sectors of the economy were awarded certificates for their dedication and commitment to duty.
