Today, we celebrate Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, a distinguished Ghanaian linguist, university administrator, and the first female Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana. Born on September 30, 1971, in Kumasi, her journey from humble beginnings to one of Ghana’s most influential academic leaders is a testament to resilience and excellence.
Professor Amfo’s academic foundation began at Holy Child School and Archbishop Porter Girls’ Secondary School, before pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in French and Linguistics at the University of Ghana. She later earned her MPhil and PhD in Linguistics from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, setting the stage for an illustrious career in education and research.
Her professional journey began as a lecturer at the Department of Linguistics, University of Ghana in 2001, where she rose through the ranks to become a Professor of Linguistics in 2017. She has held numerous leadership positions, including Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, Dean of the School of Languages, and Chairperson of the Department of Linguistics. In July 2021, she made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, a role in which she has driven innovation and transformation.
With over 22 years of experience, Professor Amfo is a trailblazer in higher education leadership. She has spearheaded initiatives like a $7-million digitalization program, aimed at revolutionizing student and faculty experiences while ensuring that people remain at the heart of operations.
Her research focuses on Pragmatics, exploring how context influences communication in domains such as health, gender, politics, and religion. Her extensive body of work is published in reputable journals, and she has co-authored a textbook on Therapeutic Communication Competencies for Nurses and Midwives.
Professor Amfo’s influence extends beyond academia. She serves on prestigious boards such as the International Association of Universities, the African Research Universities Alliance, and the Worldwide Universities Network. She is also the President of the African Humanities Association and an advocate against sexual and gender-based violence through her work with the UNFPA’s CoPASH.
Her accomplishments have earned her several accolades, including the 2021 GUBA Nana Yaa Asantewaa Woman of Enlightenment Award, the 2023 Glitz Africa Ghana Woman of the Year for Excellence in Education, and recognition by the Head of State Awards Scheme for leadership and gender empowerment.
Married to Frank Amfo and a mother of three, Professor Amfo embodies the perfect balance of family, career, and leadership.
Let’s celebrate this phenomenal woman who continues to break barriers, inspire change, and uplift others through her work!
Story by: Kelvin B. Annor-Yeboah_univers.ug.edu.gh
