The Ghana Standards Authority, in partnership with the German National Metrology Institute (PTB), has commissioned an upgraded Primary Temperature Laboratory and broke ground for a new E2 Mass Laboratory.
The newly upgraded temperature facility at the GSA is the first of its kind in Ghana and the entire West-Africa sub-region to be designated a “primary laboratory”.
This upgrade allows the laboratory to perform highly precise fixed-point calibrations according to ITS-90., which are essential for ensuring accurate temperature measurements in scientific and industrial applications.
The project was carried out under the “Establishment of a Fit-for-Future National Metrology Institute in Ghana” initiative.
Following the commissioning of the temperature lab, officials cut the sod to begin construction on a new E2 Mass Laboratory.
An E2 mass lab is capable of calibrating the most accurate reference mass standards, which are fundamental to the national measurement system.
Speaking at the event, Professor George Agyei, Director-General Ghana Standards Authority, lauded PTB for the support to strengthen two important laboratories to enhance precision measurement and effectiveness.
He said the government had already approved the funding for the construction of the laboratory and all processes for procurement were on course.
Prof Agyei called on staff to properly maintain the equipment to extend their life span.
Mr Hudu Mogtari, the Board Chairman of GSA, said the commissioning of the laboratory was an intent to position Ghana as a regional leader in scientific measurement, industrial precision, and global trade compliance.
“Our collaboration with PTB exemplifies what international partnerships can achieve when grounded in mutual respect and shared purpose,” he said.
He PTB’s provision of world-class equipment and training coupled with GSA’s commitment to infrastructure and human capital was a model of synergy.
Mr Mogtari reiterated the commitment of the Board to supporting the Director-General, the Metrology Institute, and all technical teams in ensuring that the vision is sustained.
Frederike Kaiser, a representative of PTB, said the commissioning was a reflection of the long-lasting and successful partnership between the governments of Ghana and Germany.
She said with the investment, the government of Ghana was laying the foundation of a prosperous future for cooperation, adding that with the finance provided by the Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, PTB would support with high-class equipment and further knowledge to measure mass.
“This will be an even better basis for tighter cooperation between our national metrology institutes. The new lab will further the precise measurement of mass,” she added
She said precise measurement would strengthen Ghana’s industry in line with the new 24-hour economy programme and enlarge opportunities to export goods to other countries in the region and to Europe.
“This precise measurement will also keep and expand the prestigious role of GSA as reference point in different metrological disciplines in the region,” she added.
Prince Isaac Kingsford Arthur, Director Metrology, in a speech read on his behalf, said the commissioning of the primary temperature laboratory and the groundbreaking for the E2 Mass Laboratory were bold declarations for Ghana’s leadership in scientific precision, industrial excellence and continental collaboration.
“The National Metrology Institute of Ghana is not merely a national asset. It is the reference metrology map for West Africa,” he said in the speech read on his behalf by Reverend Dr Striggner Bedu-Addo, Head, Legal Metrology Department.
“From Dakar to Lagos, from Bamako to Monrovia, Our standards, our calibrations and our expertise are the benchmark on which others rely. But our influence does not stop at the borders of West Africa. Increasingly, our services are being sourced across Africa,” he added.
Mr Arthur said countries were looking up to Ghana for metrological assurance, technical guidance and capacity building.
“This is not by chance. It is the result of deliberate investment, strategic partnership and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Our collaboration with PTB has been instrumental,” he said.
He said the laboratories would support industry, protect consumers, enhance trade and elevate Ghana’s standing in the global metrology community.
The partnership between the GSA and PTB is a long-standing one, with the German institute having previously helped train GSA staff and establish other metrology facilities.
Both projects are expected to enhance Ghana’s capacity to meet international standards for the quality of goods and services, ultimately improving the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses.
This development aligns with Ghana’s goal to strengthen its metrology infrastructure, which is a key component of its national quality system and trade facilitation.
GNA
