Accra, Ghana, September 11, 2024—The Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) recently hosted a pivotal workshop aimed at addressing human rights, inclusivity, and diversity within university settings. Held at the Erata Hotel in Accra.
The event brought together deans of students, counselors, and student leaders to engage in meaningful discussions surrounding these critical issues.
Profound insights were shared during the opening presentation by Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, Board Chair of CDD-Ghana and Dean of the School of Information and Communications Studies at the University of Ghana.
Her presentation, titled “Communicating on Diversity and Inclusion: Protecting Private and Confidential Data,” highlighted the pressing need to safeguard students’ privacy while fostering an environment conducive to inclusivity.
Professor Gadzekpo pointed to alarming incidents of discrimination and violence experienced by students with disabilities and members of the LGBTQI community, underscoring the necessity for universities to broaden their definitions of inclusivity.
“The university is a bit gun-shy right now about really expanding on how they define inclusivity and diversity. We must consider all forms of difference, including gender, social demographics, and sexual orientation,” she noted in a subsequent interview.
To address these challenges, Professor Gadzekpo called for proactive initiatives, such as awareness campaigns that promote respect and tolerance on campuses. “Institutions must send strong signals about their dedication to inclusivity,” she stressed, advocating for comprehensive social issues management plans that enhance sensitivity to crises and communication in educational settings.
Emerita Professor Takyiwaa Manuh, a Senior Fellow at CDD-Ghana, also contributed invaluable perspectives during her presentation on human rights and diversity in higher education. “The university is not a secondary school; it is a place for adults,” she emphasized, advocating for environments that encourage open dialogue and fearless self-expression.
She highlighted the importance of educating students not only on their rights but also on the broader human rights context. Professor Manuh urged universities to implement human rights-compliant policies and support services that create a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all students. “Comprehensive policies that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination within educational institutions are essential for upholding their right to education,” she asserted.
Further enriching the workshop, Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua from the University of Ghana School of Law and Director of the Africa Coalition for Academic Freedom addressed the vital role of academic freedom in promoting a diverse educational experience.
“Academic freedom is not solely for faculty; it also encompasses students’ rights to engage in robust discussions and debates,” he stated, emphasizing that a secure environment for expression enhances learning and critical thinking.
Dr. Michael Augustus Akagbor, a Senior Programs Officer at CDD-Ghana, remarked on the workshop’s timeliness, noting that many attendees, including deans of students, had not yet engaged with significant legislative changes affecting student rights.
“It is concerning that many participants were unfamiliar with such a pivotal bill,” he commented, urging public officials to separate personal biases from their responsibilities, especially in sensitive contexts.
The workshop fostered dynamic discussions that illuminated the divergent perspectives on LGBTQI rights and the experiences of sexual and gender minorities. While several participants passionately advocated for the recognition and protection of these rights, others expressed discomfort, revealing a notable divide on the topic of inclusivity in university settings.
“It has worked out well for me, but we need to engage in more conversations to fully understand these issues,” one participant said, highlighting the need to recognize the LGBTQI community as a vital component of society.
As the workshop concluded, Dr. Akagbor expressed optimism about the potential for increased dialogue and advocacy for inclusivity on campuses.
He emphasized that fostering an empowering environment would allow students to feel safe reporting issues such as sexual harassment.
The event ended with a collective call for sustained engagement among stakeholders, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and ensuring that universities in Ghana evolve into safe and respectful spaces for all students.
