The University of Ghana’s Department of Sociology has officially launched its 75th Anniversary Celebration, marking more than seven decades of pioneering social research, education, and policy influence in Ghana and across the continent.
The commemorative launch, held on May 29, 2025, at the department’s forecourt on the Legon campus, brought together academics, alumni, students, and key national figures to honour the department’s past and reimagine its future.
The event was chaired by the Provost of the College of Humanities, Professor Joseph Awetori Yaro, who represented the Vice-Chancellor. Distinguished guests in attendance included Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah, representing the Chief of Staff; Professor Abena Pokua Busia, daughter of the department’s founding Head and former Prime Minister of Ghana; Professor Clara Korkor Fayorsey; former Heads of Department; faculty members; and other esteemed dignitaries.
Founded in 1950, the Department of Sociology was one of the earliest academic units established at the University of Ghana. The department was born in response to a growing need for scholarly understanding of Ghana’s rapidly evolving social structures in the lead-up to independence.
Over the decades, the department has produced thousands of graduates who have become influential in academia, governance, civil society, and international organizations, while playing a vital role in shaping national policies on education, health, development, and governance through its teaching, research, and advocacy efforts.
Speaking at the launch, Head of Department Prof. Alhassan Sulemana Anamzoya highlighted the department’s 75-year legacy and unveiled plans to modernize its academic offerings. He announced five new specialized Master’s programs—ranging from Criminology to Health Sociology—aimed at tackling current social challenges and attracting more graduate applicants.
“For 75 years, the Department of Sociology has trained generations of thinkers, leaders, and practitioners who have helped interpret, challenge, and transform Ghanaian society. But to remain relevant, we must adapt.” In line with this goal, I have set up committees to develop five new graduate programs: Criminology and Criminal Justice Policy, Health Sociology, Industrial Sociology and Industrial Relations, Advanced Social Research, and Chieftaincy, Human Rights, and Law.
He also highlighted long-standing infrastructural challenges, including the lack of consistent access to water, but noted that Qatar Charity has pledged to construct a mechanised borehole to help resolve the issue.
In a goodwill message on behalf of the university’s senior management, Prof. Yaro congratulated the department for its enduring contribution to the university and the nation.
“The Sociology Department has always been at the heart of the University of Ghana’s mission to serve society. We are proud of what you’ve achieved and look forward to greater impact in the years ahead.”
The highlight of the event came from the keynote address delivered by Prof. Clara K. Fayorsey, a respected scholar and former faculty member. She called on the department to reassert its place in national discourse by addressing contemporary social crises head-on.
“We have too many sociologists doing book sociology. The issues of corruption, civic mistrust, and inter-ethnic violence like the Bawku conflict demand our attention. These are not just political or legal problems; they are social problems, and we must offer solutions grounded in the realities of our people.”
Prof. Fayorsey challenged the department to step beyond academia and engage directly with communities, policymakers, and the media.
“As we look forward to the next 75 years, let our sociological voice be louder, bolder, and more impactful.”
The 75th Anniversary celebration will span the rest of the year, with a calendar of events including public lectures, academic exhibitions, GSAA conferences, community outreach, and recreational activities.
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Story by: Kwadwo Owusu Anane | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by: Wahab Abdul Razak
