The unit will also provide technical assistance to institutions implementing development projects across the West African sub-region.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Ernest Aryeetey said the world has witnessed transformation in policy formulation over the last decade.
He emphasized on the need for research institutions across the sub-region to reposition themselves to conduct research whose outcomes will be less in doubt.
Professor Aryeetey urged the research institute to put in place the necessary mechanisms to ensure data collected from the unit can be used efficiently.
Program Lead for the BMGF, Dr. Elvis Frazer observed the foundation decided to partner ISSER because of its high quality work and international recognition.
The Gates Foundation, he emphasized was so much interested in contributing to meaningful changes in the society.
Dr. Frazer was optimistic the partnership would bring about the needed transformation in Ghana and other West African countries.
Director for ISSER, Professor Felix Asante said the unit seeks to achieve three objectives including strengthening technology and innovation; improving advocacy, communication and marketing as well as establishing regional partnerships and networks.
He commended the Gates Foundation for the support and emphasized the MLE unit will support the work of the institute by providing operational services across all aspects of survey research and practice.
Professor Asante also observed the support from the BMGF will also assist ISSER achieve its long term goal of becoming a world class research institute.
The BMGF from the United States of America (USA) supported the institute with an amount of 1,413,627 million US dollars (USD) towards the establishment of the unit.
The MLE unit is a state of the art data center where data can be managed, stored and analyzed locally with more robust data security and back-up systems.
The unit will undertake joint training, systems development, learning initiatives and network building with five West African countries including Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Liberia and Sierra Leone. Enditem.
Source: NewsGhana.com.gh
