On May 20, 2025, the Ohio State University’s (OSU) Center for African Studies welcomed a 12-member delegation from the Government of Ghana, representing various institutions and agencies. The visit aimed to strengthen the Columbus–Accra Sister City relationship and explore new pathways for academic, research, and policy collaboration.
Vice Provost for Global Strategies and International Affairs, Dr. Kaya Şahin, opened the session by emphasizing OSU’s commitment to deepening international partnerships. Dr. Ousman Kobo, Director of the Center for African Studies, led the discussions and reaffirmed the university’s dedication to expanding its engagement with Ghanaian institutions.
Dr. Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), shared a bold vision to position Ghana as a globally competitive hub for export-oriented manufacturing, services, and innovation. She invited OSU to collaborate on applied research, technology transfer, business incubation, and policy development—leveraging OSU’s academic strengths to help drive Ghana’s industrial growth.
Madam Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Advisor to the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, emphasized the value of long-term institutional partnerships and educational exchanges in advancing mutual development goals.
Faculty Heads from across The Ohio State University contributed to the conversation by sharing ongoing initiatives and plans in key areas such as health equity, agriculture, business, and nursing—illustrating the university’s broad and impactful engagement with Ghana.
The meeting also reaffirmed ties with the City of Columbus and marked the beginning of a promising new partnership between the Center for African Studies and Heart of Ohio Family Health.
