Ghana’s science infrastructure weak - Prof. Frimpong-Boateng

Ghana will need to build a critical mass of scientists and engineers given the frailty of science and technology infrastructure in the country, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister-designate, has said.

According to him, when this is addressed, most of the challenges science and technology is saddled with in the country would be removed.

Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Thursday February 2, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital said: “I think we need to create a critical mass of scientists because the science and technology infrastructure in Ghana is very weak.

“That is why my friend and brother Apostle Kwadwo Safo has difficulties. Over the years he has got a lot of ideas and wants to do things, but it’s almost impossible for one person to manufacture a car because car manufacturers have suppliers, sometimes hundreds or thousands .

A car manufacturer will not manufacture a tyre, will not manufacture a windscreen, will not manufacture a wiper motor, and will not manufacture the lights.

“There are suppliers and so if we don’t have those suppliers – people who can make a bolt for you, it will be very difficult. That is why we think that we should get a critical mass of scientists, technologists, and engineers so that when somebody has an idea, that idea can be transmitted to a lot of people and they can take part in that process.”