The College of Humanities at the University of Ghana has hosted its 6th International Research Conference on the theme, “Addressing Inequalities and Environmental Resilience for Sustainable Development.”
In his remarks to open the conference, Prof. Godfred Alufar Bokpin, Chair of the College Research Board, expressed gratitude to the University for the support received in hosting the previous and current conferences and lauded the research-intensive drive of the University. He noted, “Research is the oxygen for any University that wants to grow as a living organisation. It is through⁹ research that we share platforms to address important world problems and find solutions.”
Prof. Bokpin stated that the College of Humanities had set the pace, evidenced by the diversity of presenters, geographical distribution, topics and participation by graduate students. He acknowledged that economic, social and political inequality threatens the future of the country, stating, “There could not have been a better choice of theme for this year’s conference.”
Prof. Godfred Alufar Bokpin, Chair of the College Research Board
The University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for Research, Innovation and Development (RID), Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, who chaired the opening ceremony, asserted that the theme is not only timely but also critical.
He added that, “the theme of the 5th International Research Conference held in 2022 generated an Accra consensus on inequality, which has influenced this year's discussions.” Prof. Asante mentioned that despite significant progress in reducing inequalities, they still persist, urging scholars, practitioners and policymakers to take further responsibility in tackling these concerns.
Commenting on the importance of the conference, he said, “This year’s conference offers us a critical platform to debate and advance insightful theoretical discourses and propose practical far-reaching initiatives aimed at addressing these inequalities.”
Prof. Asante highlighted that “the goal of the conference is partly to encourage interdisciplinary conversations that yield unique perspectives and innovative solutions. Indeed, the careful attempt to bring together scholars from diverse fields is a sure way to ensure we can tackle complex issues of inequality and environmental resilience in a holistic and effective manner.”
Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro VC (RID)
He urged the participants to tackle the symptoms of inequalities and identify their root causes. While expressing appreciation to the participants for making the conference possible, he encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity to share knowledge, challenge assumptions and pave the way for a future where equality is a reality for all.
The Keynote Speaker for the conference, Prof. Yaw Nyarko, an Economist from New York University, United Arab Emirates, presented his contributions to research and innovative policies in addressing inequalities. He focused attention on building socio-economic and sustainable development based on lessons from studies conducted on Kumawu, the capital of Sekyere Kumawu District in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.
Prof. Nyarko encouraged the gathering to take action in addressing developmental inequalities, saying, “Our job is not just to complain; our job is to do something about it.”
Prof. Yaw Nyarko, an Economist from New York University, United Arab Emirates
Prof. Nyarko reminded students and academics of the importance of theoretical studies, urging them to become leaders in their fields before returning to impact society. “Strive to become a leader within your domain, honing your skills while young. There will be ample opportunities later in life to contribute and make a meaningful difference,” he advised.
For his part, the Provost of the College of Humanities, Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori, stressed the importance of innovation and the impact of applying the knowledge gained from the conference to benefit others.
“It is crucial that we not only learn but also use our insights to make a tangible difference in people's lives,” he stated. In his closing remarks, Prof. Ofori expressed hope that future conferences will continue to engender learning and collaboration.
Provost of the College of Humanities, Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori
Delivering a message on behalf of the sponsors, Anwar Sadar Adams, Acting Country Director of Oxfam International, Ghana, stated that the fight against inequality is the cornerstone of Oxfam's mission. He expressed honour at his organisation’s partnership with the University of Ghana on the conference and hoped for continued collaboration between the two institutions.
Anwar Sadar Adams, Acting Country Director of Oxfam International, Ghana
The three-day conference included paper presentations covering various aspects of the conference theme.
The University Graduate students from various Schools and Departments in the College participated in a comprehensive pre-conference workshop. This workshop was tailored to equip participants with essential research skills and methodologies pertinent to their fields of study. Experts and seasoned researchers led sessions on formulating research questions, designing robust methodologies and effectively communicating research findings.
The workshop also provided a platform for students to discuss their research ideas, receive feedback as well as engage in collaborative learning, thereby enhancing their readiness for academic and professional research endeavors.
A researcher making a presentation during one of the sessions
The conference concluded with a tour of the University of Ghana Main Campus, Aburi Botanical Gardens and the Aburi Arts and Craft Village, offering international participants the opportunity to observe the history, culture and beauty of these locations firsthand.
The 6th International Research Conference of the College of Humanities was organised in partnership with Oxfam International and supported by STAR Ghana Foundation; the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER); Building a New Generation of Academics in Africa (BANGA-Africa); the Department of Economics; Centre for Migration Studies (CMS); West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) and other units in the University.
