Prof. Dodoo-A Lifetime of Standards Leadership

By Peter Martey AGBEKO

In a historic and fitting recognition of a remarkable journey of leadership and transformative impact, Professor Alexander Nii Oto Dodoo, Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) and immediate past President of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO), has been conferred the title of “President Emeritus” of ARSO — a rare and distinguished honour reserved for the finest champions of Africa’s standardisation agenda.

This lifetime designation, entirely honorary and non-executive in nature, acknowledges Prof. Dodoo’s outstanding and enduring contribution to the growth, influence, and future of African standardisation.

It crowns a term marked by visionary leadership, technical innovation, pan-African solidarity, and a deep commitment to African solutions for African challenges.

From Vision to Legacy: Transforming ARSO’s Footprint

When Prof. Dodoo assumed the presidency of ARSO, many saw in him a dynamic reformer with an unshakeable belief in the power of standards as tools for economic emancipation, health, safety, and environmental protection. He did not disappoint.

Under his watch, ARSO underwent a strategic repositioning, focusing on harmonising standards across the continent in key sectors — from agriculture and pharmaceuticals to digital trade and environmental protection. His presidency coincided with Africa’s biggest economic project yet: the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Prof. Dodoo quickly recognised that without harmonised standards, AfCFTA would be little more than an aspiration. He therefore worked tirelessly to integrate standardisation into the broader continental integration agenda.

Through his efforts, ARSO’s visibility and credibility soared, not only within Africa but on the global stage. He forged partnerships with the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), African Union Commission (AUC), United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), and World Trade Organisation (WTO), bringing African concerns to the centre of global discussions on standards and technical barriers to trade.

At the Helm of GSA: Building a Standards Powerhouse in Ghana

Prof. Dodoo’s tenure as Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority has also been transformative. Appointed in 2017, he inherited an institution burdened by bureaucratic inertia. But with bold leadership, an infectious sense of purpose, and relentless drive, GSA has since become a beacon of technical excellence, innovation, and public trust.

His administration spearheaded the establishment of state-of-the-art metrology laboratories, especially the Public Utilities Metrology Laboratory (PUML), positioning Ghana as a regional hub for legal metrology and consumer protection. His vision ensured GSA became not just a regulator, but an enabler of industrial competitiveness and innovation.

He also initiated the Made-in-Ghana Standards Campaign, encouraging local manufacturers to adopt and comply with global standards, ensuring both domestic safety and export competitiveness. Through outreach, public education, and strategic engagements, Prof. Dodoo made standardisation a mainstream national conversation — a rare feat for what is traditionally seen as a technical and often overlooked domain.

The Meaning of “President Emeritus”: A Lifetime of Influence

The ARSO President Emeritus title is not just ceremonial. It is a symbol of legacy, and a call to continue serving — not with authority, but with influence. Prof. Dodoo, as President Emeritus, becomes a lifelong ambassador for standardisation in Africa, a respected figure whose advice, wisdom, and networks will continue to shape the future of ARSO.

As President Emeritus, he may be called upon to mentor future leaders, represent ARSO at high-level forums, or offer strategic guidance during moments of transition or uncertainty. His presence guarantees institutional memory, moral authority, and continuity of purpose.

It is a role that fits perfectly with the man — a pharmacist, academic, diplomat, communicator, and public servant — whose life’s work has been about setting standards, literally and figuratively.

A Standard-Bearer of African Excellence

Prof. Dodoo’s journey is, ultimately, a celebration of what is possible when excellence meets purpose. His elevation as President Emeritus is not just an honour to one man. It is a testament to Ghana’s growing leadership in African technical diplomacy, and a signal that Africa is ready to define and defend its own standards — not only in trade, but in governance, public health, education, and environmental stewardship.

In a continent often fragmented by weak institutions and divergent regulations, Prof. Dodoo’s legacy is a powerful reminder that unity, quality, and vision are non-negotiable pillars of development.

And as he often reminds us: “In standardisation, you’re not just setting rules. You’re shaping the future.”

Indeed, to God be the glory.

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