The School of Graduate Studies at Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU) hosted the second edition of the Postgraduate Research Conference from Friday, April 24, 2026, to Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Library Conference Room, CCTU.

The two-day Conference, themed "Impact of Applied Research on National Development" brought together the Management and staff of CCTU, and other academics from sister universities including; the University of Johannesburg (UJ), South Africa, and the University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (USTED), to deliberate on the impact of Applied Research and Ghana’s development, identifying the gaps in the literature, taking cognizance of core research skills for Post Graduate Research.

Prof. Emmanuel Kwaw, the Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor of CCTU, who chaired the event, in his remarks, emphasised the University’s mandate in equipping future generations with the appropriate research skills and experience for national development. “In an era where the principle for the establishment of the Technical University is based on providing opportunities for skills development, applied research and publication skills are necessities”.

He also applauded the Dean and Vice Dean of the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) for working tirelessly to bring together Grantsmanship from across various disciplines to foster innovation and collaborative research. He prayed and wished all participants well saying, “I pray that the Conference would serve as a catalyst for new ideas and collaborations.

Prof. Emmanuel Bamfo-Agyei, the Dean of School of Graduate Studies, commended the organisers and explained that the goal was to train technologists who could turn ideas into real finished products. He also highlighted the shift from the Fourth to the Fifth Industrial Revolution, urging participants to actively contribute and help make the event successful.

The President of the Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG) – CCTU, Emmanuel Asante, in his submission, encouraged students to fully participate, share ideas, and build connections. He described the Conference as an important platform for learning, innovation, and professional growth. He added that postgraduate students should not only focus on academic success but also aim to provide practical solutions that supported national development.

Prof. Richard Osae, the Director of Research, Innovation and Consultancy (DRIC), noted that the Conference theme was timely, noting that applied research should go beyond theory to solve problems, influence policy, and improve everyday life. He expressed satisfaction with the growth of the Graduate Students Association. He encouraged active participation to help turn ideas into meaningful outcomes.

Prof. Humphrey Danso, USTED, explained that applied research focused on solving practical problems. He highlighted how it could improve products and processes, such as turning waste

into useful construction materials, while also supporting entrepreneurship and startups. He encouraged participants to create their own job opportunities instead of relying solely on government employment.

Prof. Clinton O. Aigbavboa, UJ, South Africa, guided participants on identifying gaps in literature reviews, stressing the importance of reading widely, spotting missing areas, and paying attention to limitations in previous studies. He noted that a strong literature review should reflect recent and relevant work.

Dr. Michael Manford, a Lecturer and seasoned researcher at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, CCTU, spoke on research methodology and data analysis. He stressed the need for clear and engaging presentation of research findings, using simple language and visuals. He also explained that data analysis involved organising and interpreting data to uncover meaningful insights and support decision-making.

The conference featured an interactive question-and-answer session, presentation of awards and group photographs, leaving participants equipped with practical research skills.

Source: Directorate of Public Affairs