CSIR-CRI HOSTS CHAIRMAN OF CSIR COUNCIL FOR STRATEGIC RESEARCH ENGAGEMENT
The Chairman of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ing. Mark Anthony Taylor, paid a working visit to the CSIR–Crops Research Institute (CSIR-CRI) on Tuesday, 11th November, 2025 marking an important engagement aimed at strengthening collaboration, enhancing research output, and reinforcing the Institute’s role in Ghana’s agricultural transformation.
Welcomed by the Director of CSIR-CRI, Prof. Maxwell Darko Asante, and members of the Institute’s management team, the Chairman toured key research laboratories, exhibition stands and technology parks where scientists showcased innovations in crop improvement, plant protection, biotechnology, seed systems, mechanization, and climate-resilient agriculture. The tour offered him deeper insight into the scientific processes behind the improved crop varieties and technologies developed and disseminated by CSIR-CRI to farmers and agribusinesses nationwide.
In his remarks, the Chairman commended the Institute for its long-standing contribution to national food security, particularly through the development of high-yielding crop varieties, sustainable production technologies, and strong partnerships with farmers and industry stakeholders. He emphasized the Council’s commitment to supporting CSIR-CRI with the resources, policy alignment, and institutional visibility needed to scale up its impact.
The Director of CSIR-CRI, Prof. Maxwell Darko Asante, expressed appreciation for the Chairman’s visit, describing it as a timely motivation for staff and a confirmation of the Council’s confidence in the Institute’s work. He highlighted some of the Institute’s achievements, including the development of several improved crop varieties, establishment of modern training facilities, and strengthened collaborations with international research partners. He further emphasized the need for Government to prioritize research and development across all national policies and programmes.
The Director-General of CSIR, who accompanied the Council Chairman, commended Ing. Taylor for his proactive leadership, especially so soon after the inauguration of the 21-member Council. He noted that the Council is strategically positioned to support Government’s research and development agenda and reiterated the need for continued Government support to ensure CSIR’s sustained growth and relevance.
Members of staff who were present also had the opportunity to interact directly with the Chairman, raising key issues related to infrastructure, research funding, staff development, and the need for enhanced logistical support to accelerate scientific innovation.
The Chairman assured the Institute of the Council’s unwavering support and encouraged researchers to continue pursuing excellence, innovation, and impactful solutions tailored to Ghana’s agricultural development priorities.
The visit concluded with a call for deeper collaboration across CSIR institutes, stronger stakeholder engagement, and increased dissemination of research findings to farmers, agribusinesses, and policymakers
Contributers: Mr. Bernard Sakyiamah, Enoch Bobie Agyemang, Godfred Mensah Dadzie
