The University of Cape Coast (UCC) through the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ruma Fertility and Specialist Hospital, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between academia and clinical practice in Ghana.
The MoU establishes a strategic partnership aimed at advancing teaching, research, training, and capacity building in the areas that integrate molecular biology, medical and human genetics, biotechnology, reproductive medicine, and clinical embryology. Through this collaboration, both institutions seek to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, with a strong focus on innovation, skills development, and translational research. Under the agreement, students of the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology will benefit from hands-on clinical exposure, internships, industrial attachments, and research opportunities at Ruma Fertility and Specialist Hospital. The partnership will also facilitate joint research projects, staff exchange programmes, and the co-development of specialised training modules and short courses in assisted reproductive technologies and related fields.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Head of Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Prof. Foster Kyei) highlighted that the MoU aligns with the University’s mandate to produce industry-ready graduates and to foster partnerships that enhance experiential learning and research impact. The immediate past Dean of the School of Biological Sciences (UCC), Prof. Aaron Tettey Asare also emphasized that collaboration with a reputable specialist hospital such as Ruma Fertility will enrich academic programmes and expand career pathways for students and graduates of the Department.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ruma Fertility and Specialist Hospital, Dr. Rudolph Kantum Adageba, expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing its potential to contribute to the development of highly skilled professionals in reproductive health and biomedical sciences. He reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to supporting education, research, and innovation through active engagement with the University.
The MoU is expected to create a sustainable platform for knowledge exchange, joint innovation, and the promotion of best practices in molecular biology, biotechnology, and reproductive healthcare. This partnership further reinforces UCC’s position as a leading institution in scientific training and research, while contributing to national efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery through academia–industry collaboration.