By Ishmeal 
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has held discussions with organisers of the 2026 Global South Academic Forum in Shanghai, China, to explore lessons from China’s rural revitalisation and poverty reduction efforts.
The meeting was led by the Forum’s Chair, Professor Lu Xinyu, and focused on possible areas of cooperation between Ghana and the organisers.
Discussions covered community-driven development, fisheries, local governance, sports and infrastructure.
Focus on Rural Development and Poverty Reduction
China’s rural revitalisation efforts formed a key part of the discussions, with attention on lessons that could inform development initiatives in Ghana.
Community-driven development and local governance were among the areas considered, reflecting the importance of involving local communities in decisions that affect their livelihoods and access to essential services.
Fisheries also featured in the discussions, offering an area for potential knowledge-sharing on livelihoods and community development.
Exploring Areas of Cooperation
The meeting also considered sports and infrastructure as possible areas of cooperation.
These discussions provide an opportunity to explore how academic engagement and shared development experiences can contribute to practical initiatives in Ghana and other countries across the Global South.
The Global South Academic Forum brings together academic and other stakeholders to discuss development experiences and opportunities for collaboration.
Further details on any agreements, projects or follow-up activities arising from the meeting would clarify how the discussions may translate into practical outcomes.
The engagement highlights the interest in exchanging ideas and experiences on rural development, poverty reduction and community-led initiatives between Ghanaian representatives and the Forum’s organisers.
Also Read:The Eyes Of Ghana Film Brings Nkrumahs Story To Life