President John Dramani Mahama has received honorary doctorate degrees from two Russian universities during his visit to Moscow, where he outlined his government’s plans to modernise Ghana’s transport infrastructure and strengthen international academic cooperation.
The President was honoured by the Russian University of Transport and the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, during engagements linked to the Russia-Africa Summit.
The Russian University of Transport recognised Mahama for his leadership and contribution to national development, particularly in transport infrastructure, education and professional training. RUDN University cited his commitment to expanding access to education and strengthening Ghana-Russia cooperation in education and scientific research.
Speaking at the Russian University of Transport, Mahama stressed the role of efficient transport systems in economic development and said his government was investing in major infrastructure projects across the country.
“In Ghana, we recognise this fact, and we have been investing our resources in modernising our transportation networks. We have built a new port at Tema and have invested in expanding all our other existing port facilities,” he said.
He added that major road networks were being reconstructed, airports expanded and railway development continued.
The President also disclosed that efforts were underway to rebuild Ghana’s national airline, expressing hope that it would resume operations before he leaves office.
Mahama said Ghana needed skilled engineers, researchers and transport professionals to plan, develop and maintain modern infrastructure.
He called for stronger collaboration between the Russian University of Transport and Ghanaian institutions in areas including transport engineering, railway development, logistics, road safety and traffic management technology.
The President also encouraged more Ghanaian students to pursue specialised studies at the university, noting that his visit had revealed that only one Ghanaian student was enrolled there.
He said expanded student exchanges, scholarships and joint research could strengthen Ghana-Russia relations and build local expertise.
Ghana and Russia have maintained educational ties over several decades, with generations of Ghanaian students studying at Russian institutions.
Mahama is also an alumnus of RUDN University, where he pursued postgraduate studies.
His Moscow visit forms part of Ghana’s participation in the Third Russia-Africa Summit, which brings together African and Russian leaders to discuss cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The two honorary doctorates recognise different aspects of the President’s public service, including education, transport development and international cooperation.
