The University of Ghana has announced the reappointment of Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo as Vice-Chancellor for a second four-year term, commencing in October 2025.
This decision, a recognition of her remarkable leadership and contributions during her first term, was unanimously approved by the University’s Governing Council on December 19, 2024.
The reappointment followed the comprehensive review conducted by the Search Party appointed by the Council in October 2024, in line with the University’s Statutes 13 (3) and (26). These statutes outline the Vice-Chancellor’s eligibility for an initial four-year term, with the possibility of a single renewal for an additional term of up to four years, ensuring a transparent evaluation process based on merit and performance.
The first woman to hold the position of Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amfo has introduced dynamic, forward-thinking initiatives such as her digital transformation agenda, which has greatly enhanced the experiences of students and staff alike.
Professor Amfo’s first term was marked by numerous achievements that have significantly enhanced the University’s teaching, learning, and research environments.
Highlights of her tenure include the modernization of lecture halls, the successful implementation of the “One Student, One Laptop” (1S1L) initiative, and the creation of hotspot comfort zones. She also championed the establishment of the Centre for Disability Studies and Advocacy (CEDSA), introduced Gender and Internship Policies, and resolved longstanding financial challenges resulting from past litigation.
Additionally, Professor Amfo launched the Legon Leadership Academy, a platform designed to foster academic excellence and promote inclusivity. Her tenure also saw advancements in research management, digital transformation, and community engagement, solidifying the University of Ghana’s status as a leader in innovation and societal impact.
Under her leadership, the University achieved remarkable milestones, consistently ranking as Ghana’s top tertiary institution in global rankings such as the Webometrics Rankings (2022), the AD Scientific Index (2022), and the Times Higher Education Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings (2024).
Professor Amfo also spearheaded the development of the University’s 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, which envisions a “global impact through innovative research, teaching, and learning driven by technology and a people-centered approach.”
This ambitious “5-4-5 blueprint” outlines five strategic priorities: Transformative Student Experience, Impactful Research, Faculty and Staff Commitment, Engagement and Partnerships, and Sustainable Resource Mobilization and Stewardship, each supported by five specific objectives.
Beyond her role at the University, she holds key leadership positions in prestigious organizations, including the African Humanities Association, the Fédération Internationale des Langues et Littératures Modernes (FILLM), and the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA).
Professor Amfo obtained her PhD and Master’s degrees from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and holds a Bachelor’s degree in French and Linguistics from the University of Ghana. Her academic contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Legacy and Gadia State Award (2023) and the Ghana Woman of the Year Award for Excellence in Education (2023).
The University community congratulates Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo on her well-deserved reappointment and looks forward to her continued leadership in driving innovation, academic excellence, and institutional growth.
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Story by: Cindy Selasi Humade | univers.ug.edu.gh
