Centre for Asian Studies Inspires Policymakers
Dr. Lloyd Adu Amoah, Director of the Centre for Asian Studies at the University of Ghana, recently emphasized the importance of studying Asia’s rise during an interview held as part of the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) "JICA Chair" program for Japanese studies. He explained that the University of Ghana established the Centre for Asian Studies to provide Ghanaians with exposure to Asia’s developmental experiences, aiming to offer insights that could influence Ghana's policy decisions.
"We teach our students and develop curricula, including seminars and lectures, with the critical question being how these ideas eventually influence policy," Dr. Adu Amoah noted. He clarified that, while academics generate research and insights, it is ultimately the role of policymakers to implement these ideas. “Academics don’t create policies; that’s the responsibility of the presidency and politicians within the ministries.”
Dr. Adu Amoah stressed that a supportive environment is essential to allow fresh ideas to reach policymakers. He pointed to Japan’s rapid transformation as a compelling example for Ghana. Despite Japan’s devastation from the atomic bomb and subsequent American occupation, within just 15 years of the end of World War II, Japan was able to host the Olympic Games. Within three to four decades, the country rose to become a global economic leader.
He suggested that Ghana could draw inspiration from Japan’s resilience and recovery, emphasizing that with the right ideas, vision, and determination, a nation can transform, no matter its challenges.
Headlines
1. "Ghana Can Learn from Japan’s Rise"
2. "Academic Insights Vital for Policy Change"
3. "Centre for Asian Studies Inspires Policymakers"
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