CSIR-CRI Launches 4th Cohort of Mentoring Programme
CSIR-CRI Launches 4th Cohort of Mentoring Programme
The CSIR-Crops Research Institute (CSIR-CRI) has officially launched the Fourth Cohort of its Mentoring Programme, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing talent, enhancing research productivity, and promoting knowledge sharing among staff. The launch took place on 26 May 2026 at the Institute’s premises in Fumesua, Kumasi, Ashanti Region.
In his opening address, Prof. Maxwell Darko Asante, Director of CSIR-CRI, underscored the importance of mentorship as a tool for building capacity and sustaining excellence. He encouraged staff to embrace the programme fully, noting that it offers a unique opportunity for professional growth and collaboration.
The highlight of the event was a presentation by Dr. Patricia Pinamang Acheampong, Deputy Director and Coordinator of the mentoring programme. She outlined the structure, expectations, and benefits of the initiative, explaining that mentoring is a developmental relationship designed to help mentees maximize their potential, improve performance, and achieve both personal and professional goals. Dr. Acheampong emphasized that mentees will be paired with mentors based on professional alignment and compatibility, with the relationship lasting two years (August 2026 – July 2028). She added that each mentoring pair is expected to produce at least one journal article or conference paper, two technical reports, and biannual progress presentations.
Her presentation also highlighted the responsibilities of both mentors and mentees. Mentors are expected to provide guidance, motivation, and support, while mentees are encouraged to set clear goals, remain committed, and actively participate in the process. The programme offers mentors recognition, respect, and certificates of honour, while mentees gain access to networks, knowledge, and structured career development.
Following the presentation, participants engaged in an interactive question-and-answer session, which provided an opportunity to clarify details and share perspectives on the programme.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Maxwell Darko Asante, who reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to excellence and urged both mentors and mentees to approach the programme with dedication and professionalism. He commended the outstanding work being done by Dr. Acheampong and her Assistant Coordinator, Ms. Lynda Gifty Serwaa Nsafoah, in driving the growth and success of the mentoring programme. Prof. Asante expressed confidence that their leadership, combined with the active participation of staff, would yield impactful results for individuals and the Institute alike.
The ceremony ended with a group photograph, symbolizing the collaborative spirit and optimism surrounding the launch of the 4th cohort.
Contributors: Lynda G. S. Nsafoah, Riis Andreas Asare
