The Ghanaian Academic and Research Network (GARNET) successfully hosted its 4th Technical Workshop and 5th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra. The five-day event, which commenced on Monday, August 12, 2024, and concluded with the AGM on Friday, August 16, 2024, brought together over 150 participants from different universities across Ghana.
Attendees of the training event.
GARNET, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to leveraging advanced Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to enhance collaboration and innovation in academia and research, organized the workshop to equip network engineers with the skills to navigate the future of technology and security. The event was held under the theme, “Empowering Education and Research through Innovation and Collaboration: Navigating the Future of Technology.”
The Acting Vice Chancellor addressing the attendees of the training.
The workshop was officially opened by the Acting Vice Chancellor of RMU, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jnr., who expressed pride in RMU’s role as host, citing the university’s long-standing collaboration with GARNET. Dr. Brooks highlighted RMU’s unique position as one of the oldest universities on the continent and the only diplomatic university in Ghana, making it an ideal venue for such a significant gathering. He emphasized the importance of the meeting in fostering excellence in education and research, and encouraged attendees to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborations that promote best practices.
Emeritus Professor Clifford Nii Boi Tagoe, who chaired the occasion, commended RMU for its unwavering support and generosity, which were instrumental in making the event possible. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between GARNET and RMU, particularly in improving the university’s network infrastructure through direct engineering assistance.
Emeritus Professor Clifford Nii Boi Tagoe.
OTHER SPEAKERS
Dr. Alex Oppong, Director of Awareness Creation and Capacity Building at the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in developing a robust network to tackle challenges within the sector. He highlighted the necessity of creating a future where a comprehensive understanding of security is widespread and continuous education is prioritized, both of which are vital for strengthening cybersecurity.
Dr. Alex Oppong, Director of Awareness Creation and Capacity Building at the Cyber Security Authority (CSA).
A panel discussion on “Strengthening Cybersecurity in Academic Institutions: The Role of Identity and Access Management” featured insights from Prof. Amoako-Yirenkyi of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Sylvester Hatsu, Director of IT at Accra Technical University (ATU), and Mr. Benjamin Cobblah, Deputy Chief Information Technology Officer (Security Planning) at the University of Ghana. The session was moderated by GARNET CEO, Mr. Lucas Yikimpa Chigabatia.
A panel discussion on “Strengthening Cybersecurity in Academic Institutions: The Role of Identity and Access Management”.
Moreover, the AGM emphasized the importance of building strong networks between institutions. It encouraged participants to view themselves as part of a larger community dedicated to shared growth and development. By working together, these institutions can not only improve their own capabilities but also contribute to the broader goal of advancing education and research across the nation.
In addition to technical workshops, the event featured panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities, all designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the role of technology in education and research. The insights gained from these sessions are expected to lead to the development of new initiatives that will drive progress in the sector.
Ultimately, the workshop and AGM reinforced GARNET’s role as a catalyst for positive change in Ghana’s academic and research landscape. The organization’s efforts to expand access to digital services, promote collaboration, and advance education and research are central to its mission of empowering institutions to meet the challenges of the future. The event not only showcased the current achievements but also set the stage for future initiatives that will continue to elevate the standard of education and research in Ghana.
Information Source: Marketing Unit.