Ghanaian-German Center for Development Studies (GGCDS)

The ZEF-led DAAD Center of Excellence in Ghana

The Ghanaian-German Center for Development Studies (GGCDS) established in 2008 in collaboration with the Institute of Statistical Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana, aims at training dedicated and innovative future leaders from Ghana and other African countries who commit themselves to the development of their countries and can contribute to the strong partnership between Germany and many African countries. PhD-candidates undergo intense training in interdisciplinary development theory, methodology, and professional skills and conduct research on a range of topics related to the economic, social, and political development of their countries. This research not only directly contributes new insights and knowledge that feed into development processes but also, in addition to their training, equips the students with expertise enabling them to take up responsible positions in universities, government, NGOs, and international organizations after obtaining their PhD. Furthermore, the GGCDS supports academic exchange and capacity building in the form research visits in Germany and international conference participation not only for students, but also for the staff of our collaborating partners.

After a successful evaluation of the GGCDS in 2012/2013, funding for a second project phase until 2018, in which the partnership will be expanded to include the University of Development Studies (UDS) in northern Ghana, has been granted by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Federal Foreign Office.