Prof. Peter Quartey completes six-year tenure as ISSER Director, leaves legacy of global partnerships and transformative growth

Professor Peter Quartey has concluded his six-year tenure as Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana, serving from August 1, 2019, to July 31, 2025. His tenure ushered in a period of exceptional growth and transformation, firmly positioning ISSER as a leader in economic and social research in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). 

Elevating ISSER's global profile

Central to Prof. Quartey’s leadership was an ambitious internationalisation agenda that significantly elevated ISSER’s global standing. He spearheaded strategic partnerships with renowned international research institutions, such as DEVLAB (USA), IFPRI, ANAPRI etc. thereby positioning ISSER as a key player in global development dialogue. These efforts were complemented by a strong commitment to local engagement, ensuring ISSER remained rooted in Ghana’s development priorities even as its international influence grew.

This expanded global profile was reflected in a series of high-level events hosted by the Institute, including the 2024 and 2025 Evidence to Action Conferences, the 2023 joint conference on climate finance with the European University Institute, and the 2021 hosting of the ReNAPRI Annual Conference. These platforms attracted global attention to African development challenges and showcased ISSER’s role as a bridge between local evidence and global policy conversations.

Consistent excellence in research and programming

Throughout his directorship, Prof. Quartey upheld ISSER’s tradition of delivering timely, high-quality research outputs. Flagship publications such as the State of the Ghanaian Economy Report (SGER) and Ghana Social Development Outlook (GSDO) were published consistently, alongside policy briefs and special studies, including the 2021 report on the impact of COVID-19 in Ghana.

Equally consistent were ISSER’s advocacy and stakeholder engagement programmes – development dialogue series, budget reviews, publication launches, and regional roadshows -- all helping to translate research into real-world impact.

Strengthened research capacity and partnerships

Under Prof. Quartey’s stewardship, ISSER significantly enhanced its research capacity and external partnerships. Notably, the Institute launched three major multi-year grant-making initiatives, including the USD 5 million ReFinD research programme, which spans Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. Other major grants include the IDRC Future of Work and the Mastercard Foundation Youth Futures project. These collaborations boosted ISSER’s financial sustainability and expanded its capacity to address complex development challenges.

Attracting and retaining competent human resources, alongside mentoring and nurturing early-career researchers, was a key priority during Prof. Quartey’s tenure. Six new faculty members were engaged over the six-year period, strengthening the Institute’s research capacity and expertise. This growth was further enriched by a steady stream of visiting scholars, who brought diverse perspectives and contributed to a dynamic, collaborative research environment.

Investment in communication capacity

Recognising the vital role of communication in advancing ISSER’s mission, Prof. Quartey prioritised both infrastructure and visibility. His support led to the acquisition of audio-visual equipment, recruitment of skilled communications staff, and allocation of funds to support activities to ensure effective dissemination and stakeholder engagement.

He also championed ISSER’s media presence, regularly granting interviews, encouraging researcher participation in public discourse, and promoting informed media coverage of research. His efforts ensured that ISSER’s voice -- and the evidence it generates -- remained present in national conversations and policy debates.

The Institute’s website has received a boost with a dedicated website manager supported by content creators. This has led to a boost in the traffic to ISSER’s website. In addition, other digital media platforms have been explored to their full advantage.

Infrastructure and digital transformation

One of Prof. Quartey's most visible legacies is the completion and launch of the ISSER Office Complex and Digital Centre (OCDC), a 10.5 million Ghana Cedi project that has transformed the institute’s physical and digital landscape. The facility offers modern, well-equipped workspaces, a high-speed digital centre, and an e-library providing access to ISSER’s publications and academic resources.

This investment in infrastructure supports ISSER’s growing stature as a research powerhouse and positions the institute as a leader in digital scholarship in West Africa.

A foundation for future growth

Having completed his mandatory six-year term, Prof. Peter Quartey steps down as Director of ISSER on 31 July 2025. He continues to serve as a Professor of Economics at the Institute, Executive Director of the ReFinD Initiative, and Acting Director of the Legon Centre for International Affairs and Diplomacy (LECIAD).

Under his leadership, ISSER has been placed on a strong growth trajectory -- locally grounded, globally engaged, and well-positioned for the future. His tenure leaves behind a solid foundation for deeper international collaboration, greater policy influence, and sustained research excellence.

ISSER extends its sincere appreciation to Prof. Peter Quartey for his exemplary service and transformative leadership. As he continues to contribute to the Institute’s academic life, his expertise, networks, and unwavering support will remain vital to ISSER’s ongoing progress and impact.