U. Kadiri Afegbua¹ , J. Nnambo² , B. Ateba³ , P. Amposah⁴

¹Centre for Geodesy and Geodynamics, National Space Research and Development Agency
²University of Portharcout
³Geological Survey Agency
⁴Ghana Atomic Energy Commission

Abstract:

Low level of research collaborations has been the bane of scientific development within West African region. However, an unprecedented milestone was achieved in 2017 as researchers from Cameroun, Nigeria, Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana and Senegal have joined forces to work towards advancing research activities and promote integration of CTBT Academic curricula in the region. The group met during the last quarter of 2017 to work out modalities for rapid attainment of its resolutions. The meeting which attracted researchers, academia and students cutting across most disciplines from higher institutions, gave rise to fundamental research prospects in the region which include the use of IMS products for integrated research, ambitious data sharing, joint research projects and knowledge exchange, overall diversification and integration of knowledge-based CTBT academic curricula in key institutions in the region. One of the strategies adopted by the group include involvement of ECOWAS as a regional block for quick policy implementation. The group equally identified some challenges that may hinder meaningful research and prospect of incorporation of CTBT academic curricula which include ease of access to CTBT materials, internet-based tools, and CTBT course accreditation etc. Region-based solutions have also been proposed to address the aforementioned constraints.