The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and the Narcotics Control Commission have engaged in discussions aimed at building collaboration in lifelong learning, research and community engagement. The discussions took place on Thursday, 7 May 2026, when a delegation from the Commission paid a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor.
The engagement formed part of efforts to strengthen institutional cooperation between academia and public-sector agencies in addressing relevant national development priorities through education, evidence-based research, capacity building and community-focused initiatives.
The delegation from the Commission was led by PNCO Ernestina Adjei Mensah, Acting Director, Drug Demand Reduction. She was accompanied by SNCO Clara Botchway of the Education Department; Rev. NCO Shadrack Yeboah, Madina Municipal Commander; and ANCO Ellis Lotamey of the Public Affairs Department.
Discussions centred on possible areas of collaboration, particularly in research, public education, professional training, capacity building and community engagement. The two institutions also explored how structured partnerships could promote knowledge exchange and support practical responses to emerging societal challenges.
Speaking during the engagement, Professor Mawutor reaffirmed UPSA’s commitment to purposeful partnerships that align with the University’s mandate and strategic vision.
He noted that UPSA continues to position itself as a progressive higher education institution committed to interdisciplinary research, innovation and the application of academic knowledge to real-world problems.
The Vice-Chancellor further indicated that collaborations with public institutions such as the Narcotics Control Commission provide important opportunities for universities to contribute evidence-based insights, strengthen public education and support national development through research and professional training.
For her part, the leader of the Commission’s delegation, PNCO Ernestina Adjei Mensah, said the Commission values partnerships with tertiary institutions because of their role in shaping public understanding, producing relevant research and supporting community-level education.
She noted that collaboration with UPSA would provide a useful platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building and sustained public education initiatives that respond to contemporary societal needs.
