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0 In a significant step toward preserving Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, the Dikan Centre has received a substantial grant from the prestigious Mellon Foundation.
This grant will support the establishment and operations of the Awo Institute, a dedicated initiative focused on heritage conservation and cultural engagement.
This latest investment underscores the Mellon Foundation’s commitment to the global preservation and revitalisation of cultural heritage.
The grant enables the Dikan Centre to greatly enhance its archival digitisation efforts, historical preservation work, and community-oriented educational programmes.
The newly established Awo Institute is set to become Ghana’s largest archival digitisation and preservation centre.
Equipped with advanced digitisation technology, an audiovisual lab, digital innovation facilities, and state-of-the-art conservation labs, the institute will digitise up to 5,000 historical items daily.
These include critical documents, rare manuscripts, photographs, and audiovisual materials, securing them for future generations.
Complementing the work of the Awo Institute, Ahenfie, meaning “palace” in Akan, offers an innovative approach to cultural preservation. Unlike traditional museums, Ahenfie will engage visitors through interactive storytelling, dynamic exhibits, and educational experiences designed to celebrate Ghana’s heritage vividly and engagingly.
Paul Ninson, Founder and Executive Director of Dikan Centre, expressed deep gratitude for the Mellon Foundation’s support: “We are incredibly honoured by this generous funding. It significantly strengthens our ability to preserve Ghanaian and African heritage, while actively engaging and educating communities in culturally meaningful ways.”
Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, welcomed the initiative: “The Mellon Foundation’s support for the Dikan Centre represents a major advancement in our efforts to preserve and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. Dikan’s approach ensures that our heritage continues to inspire future generations.”
The project is further supported by esteemed international partners, including the University of Pennsylvania Museum, Getty Research Institute, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Google Arts & Culture.
This collaboration will enhance Dikan’s capacity to build robust partnerships with both local and international institutions, strengthening heritage preservation and cultural education efforts.
