Vice-President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has urged political parties to prioritise policy research and institutional knowledge to strengthen governance and sustain effective administration beyond changes in leadership.
Speaking at the 2026 Global South Academic Forum in Shanghai, China, she said political parties needed strong institutions and well-developed policies to remain effective regardless of changes in their leadership.
She stressed that winning elections and governing effectively were distinct responsibilities, requiring parties to build the capacity to translate campaign promises into meaningful outcomes for citizens.
“Our political parties must learn to value serious policy research and institutional knowledge,” she said.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang said political parties must invest in research and institutional systems that support informed decision-making and help shape policies responsive to citizens’ needs.
She also called for greater citizen participation in political processes, emphasising the need to create more opportunities for women and young people to contribute to decision-making.
According to her, strong institutions backed by research and institutional knowledge are essential to effective governance and policy development.
Her remarks underscored the importance of building political institutions that can sustain policy direction and deliver on public commitments even when leadership changes.