Source: Punch Newspaper
The United Kingdom Government, through its West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH), has launched the Sankore project, a program designed to boost technology and innovation in Nigeria and Ghana. With funding up to £1.9 million, the project aims to stimulate economic growth in both countries.
The announcement was made by Ndidiamaka Eze, Senior Press and Public Affairs Officer at the British High Commission in Nigeria, on Tuesday. Named after a historical West African center of learning, the Sankore project will establish new partnerships with non-profit organizations and UN agencies in both nations.
UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, introduced the Sankore project during a press conference in Accra on September 17, 2024. He invited non-profits and UN agencies to submit innovative proposals that would strengthen collaboration between the UK, Nigeria, and Ghana in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.
“This project is designed to strengthen global technology sectors and provide opportunities for rapidly developing economies to compete on the international stage. The Sankore grant encourages partnerships, reflecting our belief that collaboration drives greater success,” Collins said.
Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, stressed the importance of the project for Nigeria. “The Sankore project provides a vital chance to enhance Nigeria’s innovation environment by promoting stronger connections between industry and science, while also developing supportive policies. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to finding practical solutions for sustainable growth,” Nnaji stated.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, also highlighted the project’s significance in advancing Nigeria’s technology sector. “Sankore shows the UK’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria. It will strengthen partnerships between businesses and innovators, helping to bridge gaps in critical economic sectors,” Baxter explained.
The Sankore initiative is part of the UK-Africa Technology and Innovation Partnerships Programme, complementing other UK-backed initiatives such as FSD Africa, Manufacturing Africa, MOBILIST, and British International Investments, all of which aim to promote economic growth and private sector development across West Africa.
Interested organizations can apply through the UK government’s official website. The deadline for submissions is October 25, 2024, at noon West Africa Time (WAT).
