The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) officially opened its new regional office in Accra, Ghana, on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
This strategic move aims to strengthen educational collaborations not only in Ghana but also in West African countries like Nigeria and Cameroon, which are recognised for their expanding academic potential.
The launch event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including DAAD President Prof. Joybrato Mukherjee, who highlighted the significance of this initiative amid global challenges.
Other notable guests included H.E. Manuel Müller, Acting Ambassador of Germany to Ghana; H.E. Irchad Razaaly, EU Ambassador to Ghana; Lena Leumer, Director of the DAAD Regional Office Accra; and Prof. Nana Aba Appiah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana.
The gathering underscored the importance of international cooperation in advancing higher education in the region.
During the ceremony, H.E. Manuel Müller expressed optimism about the positive impact of the new office on Germany’s relationship with Ghana.
He noted that DAAD has already contributed significantly to educational exchange, with the number of scholarships awarded to Ghanaian students doubling in recent years.
“DAAD has made remarkable contributions to higher education cooperation, and we can be happy to note that the number of scholarships for Ghanaian students has doubled since then.
Institutional partnerships between Ghanaian and German universities have even tripled, and a vibrant network of alumni now spans across the region, and I think the DAAD can be proud of this work,” said H.E. Manuel Müller.
The DAAD regional hub is expected to serve as a vital platform for providing information on study and research opportunities, supporting academic networks, and promoting science diplomacy. H.E. Manuel Müller emphasised that this expansion is a clear sign of Germany’s intent to deepen ties with West Africa.
“The office will also coordinate with the European Union’s Erasmus+ program, offering students access to a wide array of opportunities in Germany and across Europe, reinforcing the broader efforts of Team Europe to foster academic exchange between Africa and Europe,” H.E. Manuel Müller affirmed.
This new regional office marks a milestone in Germany’s ongoing commitment to international education and collaboration in West Africa.
By expanding its presence and resources, DAAD aims to create more opportunities for students, researchers, and academic institutions, ultimately strengthening the region’s educational landscape and fostering mutual growth and understanding across continents.
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