Former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has questioned Ghana’s development planning framework, saying the lack of a long-term strategy is holding the country back.
Speaking in an interview with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV’s The Point of View on Monday, January 12, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng highlighted how policies introduced by successive governments have often been cancelled by their successors.
He urged the country to adopt a proper developmental plan that extends beyond the tenure of any single government.
“I don’t attempt to assess any government; first of all, there must be a plan. A plan that survives the present government and moves into the future. And I have not seen this plan in the 4th Republic. There have been visions and dreams all along, but these are like party manifestoes, wishful thinking not backed by science, technology and innovation.
“I have not seen a developmental plan that will outlive a government and become a national plan. Any plan that doesn’t have a role for universities, academic institutions, or research institutions. That thing cannot stand the test of time. We don’t have a plan for education, industry, or transportation. I don’t see it,” he asserted.
He further pointed to China as an example, noting, “If you want to see a proper plan, look at what the Chinese did in March 1986, when four weapon scientists wrote a letter.”
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s comments underline the need for Ghana to establish a scientifically grounded and long-term development framework that leverages research and innovation to guide national progress.
