Government urged to strengthen departments of computer science

By Elsie Appiah-Osei /Julius K. Satsi
Accra, Sept. 29, GNA - An International conference of the Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Ghana (CARLIGH) opened in Accra on Wednesday with a call on government to strengthen departments of computer science across the country.

Dr Ferdinand Apietu Katsriku, the Head of Computer Science Department at the University of Ghana, Legon, who made the call in Accra, said strengthening the departments would help in the delivery and support of technologies that are required to manage knowledge.

He said there is an acute shortage of the skills and expertise required to effectively deliver solutions based on Information Communication Technology.

'It will come as no surprise to note that in this country, there is not a single research institute or centre dedicated to computer science research.

'Government should consider as a matter of urgency to set up a national centre for computer science and information technology research, to provide solutions to IT problems the nation encounters,' he said.

Dr Kaksriku also called on the leadership of the country to critically recognise the importance of knowledge management and what is required to bring it to actualization.

'This critical role that computer science can play in this endeavour cannot be overstated.'.

Dr Joel Sam, the Chair of CARLIGH Management Committee, addressing participants said it is the primary goal of the members to use the engagement to exchange ideas and experiences on the latest information about knowledge management and the role of information professionals.

'We are so excited for you to be part of the dialogue or conversation as in the first conference, CARLIGH has provided an excellent forum of exchanging information and discussion on a variety of interesting topics,' he said.

Dr Sam noted that during the conference, participants would have a lot of learning and networking for a stimulating, informative and fulfilling experience.

Speaking on the theme: 'Transition from Information to Knowledge Management: the Role of the Information Professional,' Professor Stephen Adei of the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, at the Ashesi University College, said knowledge is expensive but its importance has been underestimated in the country.

He said information management is almost indispensable as a nation, adding: 'There is the need for information to be managed and therefore somebody must be in charge of information research and the making of relevant outcomes to inform policies and discussion.'.

Prof Adei called for a quantum change in the life of leaders and academicians towards the management and relevance of research.

The three-day conference brought information professionals working with CARLIGH, other stakeholders and higher education institutions together to discuss knowledge management practices in industry and business, ethics in information use, continuous professional development for 21st century professional and human resource development of professionals in a technological age.

GNA