By: Kwame Bediako
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) officially launched its new regional office in Accra, Ghana on April 24, 2025 marking a significant milestone in fostering academic collaboration across West Africa.
The initiative aims to not only enhance educational ties within Ghana but also to bolster relationships with neighboring countries such as Cameroon and Nigeria, which are increasingly recognized for their educational potential.
The launch was attended by key stakeholders who highlighted the strategic importance of establishing a regional hub in Ghana.
During the event, Prof. Joybrato Mukher, President of DAAD, emphasized the organization’s long-standing commitment to supporting scholars worldwide since its founding in 1925. He noted that DAAD now operates nearly 60 offices globally, with over 400 teaching and research posts at universities across all continents.
“Since its founding in 1925, the DAD has supported over 3 million scholars worldwide. Our global network comprises almost 60 offices around 400 teaching and research posts at universities on all continents and a huge network of alumni who are building bridges across borders and oceans,preserving channels for dialogue even or particularly under challenging circumstances”; Prof. Joybrato Mukher (President of DAAD)
H.E Manuel Müller, Acting German Ambassador to Ghana, underscored the significance of the new office in promoting academic exchanges and science diplomacy. He explained that the office would serve as a resource for study and research opportunities in Germany and Europe, aligning with the European Union’s Erasmus+ program.
“The new office will provide information on study and research opportunities, support academic networks and promote science diplomacy and this is a strong signal of Germany’s intent to deepen academic ties and relations with West Africa and this is also part of the efforts of Team Europe on academic exchange between Africa and Europe. It goes hand in hand with the offers that the European Union provide by Erasmus+”; Manuel Müller, Ag. Ambassador of Germany to Ghana said.
The European Union’s Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, also expressed enthusiasm about the expansion of DAAD’s presence in the region. He commended Ghana’s vibrant academic and intellectual talents, noting that the country was selected for this second regional office in sub-Saharan Africa due to its strategic importance and dynamic educational landscape.
“Since the establishment of the country office 25 years ago, DAAD has now expanded its reach and now we are happy to participate in the launch and the opening of this West Africa office. And we are very happy, I’m very happy as the ambassador of the European Union here in Ghana that DAAD has chosen Ghana and Accra in particular to open its second regional office in sub-Saharan Africa. We all know that Ghana is a vibrant hub of academic and intellectual talents in West Africa and across the continent”; H.E Irchad Razaaly (EU Ambassador to Ghana)
The launch of the DAAD regional office in Ghana signifies a strategic move to strengthen educational bonds and promote scientific diplomacy within West Africa. By providing vital information on study opportunities and fostering networks, the initiative aims to unlock new possibilities for students and researchers across the region, ultimately contributing to the development of a more interconnected and collaborative academic community.
