A picture of officials, executies and guests at the inauguration.
The Legon Centre for Education Research and Policy (LECERP), in collaboration with the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, has officially inaugurated the UNESCO Club – University of Ghana Chapter, marking a significant milestone in the University’s commitment to global development frameworks and youth-led change.
Dr. Clement Adamba delivering his welcome address.
In his welcome address, the Director of LECERP, Dr. Clement Adamba, characterised the occasion as the outcome of a deliberate and emerging partnership between the Centre and the Ghana Commission for UNESCO. He noted that LECERP’s work across research, policy engagement, and training naturally resonates with UNESCO’s mandate. He highlighted ongoing collaborations, including policy advocacy initiatives and the commemoration of international observances such as the Internatioanl Literacy Day, and World Teachers’ Day.
He also announced plans to roll out two short courses in Educational Law and Peace Education for both pre-service and in-service teachers. He explained that the courses are intended to contribute to promoting peace, human rights, and responsible citizenship, while addressing existing gaps in teacher preparation in Ghana. According to him, the idea for the programmes emerged from discussions held with officials of the Ghana Commission for UNESCO during earlier engagements, which eventually culminated in the development of the courses.
Dr. Adamba further described the Club as “a vibrant space for collaboration and innovation,” emphasising its role in equipping students to engage critically with both local and global challenges. He expressed confidence in the newly sworn-in student leadership to build a strong and impactful community.
Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe delivering his address.
Chairing the occasion, the Provost of the College of Education, Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, described the Club as a strategic platform that aligns the academic community with global values of human rights, equity, solidarity, and sustainable development. Prof. Codjoe underscored the broader significance of the initiative. He noted that the establishment of the Club aligns with the University of Ghana’s Strategic Plan (2024–2029), particularly in advancing transformative student experiences and strengthening institutional partnerships. He commended LECERP for its leadership in driving the initiative and expressed appreciation to the Ghana Commission for UNESCO for its continued support and collaboration.
Reflecting on the global legacy of UNESCO Clubs, the Provost highlighted their longstanding contribution to promoting peace, intercultural understanding, sustainable development, and active citizenship across generations.
H.E Edmond Moukala, delivering his remarks.
In a thought-provoking address, the UNESCO Representative to Ghana, H.E Edmond Moukala, situated the inauguration within the context of global challenges and Africa’s development trajectory. He urged students to see themselves not only as leaders of the future, but as active change-makers in the present, and encouraged the Club to serve as a platform for innovation and meaningful action rather than symbolic participation.
Addressing pressing global concerns such as conflict, inequality, and climate change, he emphasised the critical role of young people, describing them as “the antidote to despair.” He further noted that in the global architecture of peace, young people are not merely participants but central actors, whose creativity and energy are vital to advancing UNESCO’s mission.
Prof. Osman Tahidu Damba, addressing participants at the inauguration.
Offering a practical perspective, the Secretary-General of the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, Prof. Osman Tahidu Damba, encouraged the Club to pursue targeted initiatives, including debates, workshops, and youth fellowships. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting the Club through mentorship and collaboration.
He further described the Club as an incubator for leadership, citizenship, and innovation, noting that it also provides an avenue for lecturers and academic staff to mentor students, strengthen research and community engagement, and promote value-based education across disciplines.
Mr. Joseph Oduro Nkansah, delivering his solidarity message.
In a solidarity message, the Registrar of the College of Education, Mr. Joseph Oduro Nkansah, reaffirmed the institution’s support for the initiative, describing LECERP’s ability to translate vision into action as commendable. The College Registrar emphasised that education extends beyond formal instruction to include the development of values, competencies, and active citizenship.
Dr. Joyce Anku, delivering her presentation.
During the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Joyce Anku delivered a presentation on the UNESCO Club, tracing the journey from its conception at Legon Centre for Education Research and Policy (LECERP) to its formal establishment. The presentation highlighted the mission, opportunities, and global relevance of the initiative, while reinforcing its significance within the University community.
Rev. Aku Xornam Adzraku, Co-Patron of the Club delivering her remarks.
In brief remarks, Rev. Aku Xornam Adzraku, Co-Patron of the Club, shared reflections on her experiences in student clubs during her school years, noting their influence on her personal and professional development.
Mr. Prosper Nyavor, Head of Education at UNESCO Ghana swearing in the executives.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the swearing-in of the seven-member student executive team, marking the formal assumption of leadership responsibility within the student body and reflecting a shared sense of purpose among stakeholders.
Mr. Emmanuel Johnson Egyire, President, with members of the club
In his inaugural address, the President of the UNESCO Club – UG Chapter, Mr. Emmanuel Johnson Egyire expressed gratitude to all partners and challenged his colleagues to embrace leadership with purpose and responsibility. Drawing on leadership philosophy and scripture, he emphasised service, unity, and the importance of striving for excellence.
The inauguration positions the University of Ghana within a global network of UNESCO-affiliated student associations committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. With the 2030 deadline approaching, the establishment of the Club underscores the urgency of youth engagement in addressing complex global challenges.
A cross-section of the audience at the inauguration.
Also in attendance were key stakeholders, including other officials from the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, Deans and Heads of departments from the College of Education, other invited guests and students.
Overall, the inauguration signals a new phase of structured collaboration between LECERP and its partners. Beyond its formal establishment, the UNESCO Club – UG Chapter stands as a dynamic movement committed to shaping a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future through youth-led action.