Enhancing Climate Information Services for Sustainable Development Needs and Decision-Making in an Academic Community in Ghana

Abstract

This study delves into the critical issue of climate change and its profound implications for sustainable development, with a particular focus on the context of African nations like Ghana. The effective adaptation to climate change hinges on timely access to accurate climate information. However, the successful utilization and adoption of climate data are contingent upon collaborative efforts between providers and users. In this context, we investigate the specific climate information needs within the diverse sections of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Ghana. Conducting an exhaustive survey involving a broad spectrum of stakeholders, our research reveals that respondents within the UENR community possess a sound understanding of climate change. Importantly, they express distinct information requirements related to climate change. Notably, the decisions made by these individuals are significantly influenced by weather and climate information. Moreover, respondents emphasize the importance of climate information that aligns seamlessly with their expectations regarding relevance and precision. This study encompasses diverse segments of the university, including teaching staff, non-teaching staff, and students. Respondents from various departments were selected randomly, and we meticulously gathered primary data through structured questionnaires. Additionally, this research was complemented by a comprehensive review of secondary data from scholarly sources such as books, journals, articles, and reports. This research centers on the utilization and usability of climate information to facilitate climate change adaptation within the framework of climate services to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application in the realm of development studies. The study also contributes to disseminating best practices, case studies, theories, methods, and data analysis directly relevant to climate services. By highlighting the multidisciplinary and application-oriented nature of climate services within specific sectors, this paper provides valuable insights into the pivotal role of climate information in addressing the formidable challenges posed by climate change.