The WAGMC Genomic Medicine Building, University of Ghana, Legon Campus

The West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) celebrated a major milestone on November 8, 2024, with inauguration of its state-of-the-art Genomic Medicine Building at the University of Ghana, Legon. The facility will position Ghana at the forefront of genomic education and training, research and health service delivery in West Africa marking a new era in human genomics in the  Sub-Region.

Prof. Solomon Fiifi Ofori-Acquah, Director of WAGMC

The building, constructed with funds from the Ghana government through the World Bank’s Africa Centres of Excellence (ACE) for Development Impact, was inaugurated by Hon. Dr. Yaw Adutwum, Minister for Education of the Republic of Ghana, and Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana.

Prof. Solomon Fiifi Ofori-Acquah, Director of WAGMC, emphasized that the new facility, which spans 2,600 square meters, will serve as a catalyst for transformative research in Ghana. In his speech, he explained that the Genomic Medicine Building will promote genetic studies and research tailored to the unique health needs of African populations.  “I see this building as a cross-cutting platform for transformative work globally through education, research and community and public engagement,” he emphasized.

The facility includes a 220-square-meter laboratory, a 200-seat auditorium, a genetic counselling clinic, multiple smart classrooms, a biorepository, graduate room, a boardroom and administrative and faculty offices. Prof. Ofori-Acquah expressed gratitude for the support WAGMC has received from the World Bank and the University.

Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana (UG)

Reflecting on the journey from inception to completion, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo stated that, “In July 2022, I performed the sod-cutting ceremony to begin the construction of this magnificent edifice.” This milestone reinforces WAGMC’s role as a key institution for advanced genomic research. She emphasized that the facility aligns with the University of Ghana’s commitment to excellence and its global impact through transformative research and education. She celebrated the Centre’s significant achievements, including groundbreaking research in sickle cell disease and the establishment of Sub-Saharan Africa’s first MSc programme in Genetic Counselling.

Hon. Dr. Yaw Adutwum, Minister for Education

Hon. Dr. Yaw Adutwum, Minister for Education, spoke about the government’s dedication to supporting science, technology, and innovation. He lauded the new facility as a critical addition to Ghana’s educational and healthcare landscape, commending WAGMC’s leadership in genetic research. He emphasized the Ministry’s support for expanding access to genetic health resources and encouraged the Centre to engage in outreaches to young students, inspiring future geneticists. Dr. Adutwum reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in scientific research facilities to empower Ghanaian students and scientists and enhance the nation’s healthcare capabilities. He noted WAGMC’s instrumental role in building a foundation for health science research in Ghana and urged students and researchers to fully utilize the opportunities provided by the facility.

Unveiling of the inauguration plague by the  Hon Dr. Yaw Adutwum ( Minister for Education) and Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo (Vice-Chancellor)

A group picture of  dignitaries taken at the inauguration

Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai spoke on behalf of GTEC, wishing the Centre well. He emphasized that the ACE centres are not only centres of excellence but also models for emulation, within the ghana education system. Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire represented the ACE Community, the World Bank, and the Association of African Universities. She extended a heartfelt congratulations to the WAGMC team and acknowledged the inauguration as a significant milestone in achieving the ACE Impact vision of strengthening higher education and research across West Africa. Also present at the inauguration were the Osu Mantse, Notse Nii Nortey Owuo IV, the La Traditional Council, Nii Adjei Koofeh IV (La Shikitele), Nii Yemo Din II (La Akwashongtse) and Nii Solomon Tetteh (La Otseame), the Chief of Staff of the Okyenhene, Nana Tsumasi Ankrah, Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), and Dr. Sylvia Mkandawire, the Project Manager of the ACE Impact Project.