Chancellor Urges Stronger Government Support for University Innovation to Tackle Unemployment, Calls on Graduates to Drive National Development
The Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse, has called for sustainable government support for university-driven innovations and entrepreneurship, arguing that student-led solutions must be placed at the heart of Ghana’s job creation strategy.
Speaking at the first session of the July 2025 Congregation Ceremonies held at the Great Hall, Mrs. Chinery-Hesse emphasised the University’s growing contributions to innovation and youth entrepreneurship as critical in addressing the country’s unemployment challenge.
“Our students have the talent and drive, but without sustainable government funding, the full potential of university-led innovation will remain untapped,” the Chancellor stated. “If we are serious about reducing unemployment, then job creation must be directly linked to the innovation and creativity emerging from our universities.”
She warned against the consequences of neglecting Ghana’s youth, saying, “We cannot afford to continue losing our young people to foreign countries in search of opportunity, or worse, risk leaving them behind, vulnerable to frustration, crime and despair.”
Mrs. Chinery-Hesse appealed to government, industry and development partners to work more closely with academic institutions to create a more enabling environment for innovation to thrive.
“As Chancellor of this University, I urge government, industry and development partners to work more closely with our institutions,” she said. “If we are to tackle unemployment meaningfully, student innovation must be placed at the centre of Ghana’s job creation agenda.”
She expressed confidence that with such support, university innovation could unlock “a future of dignity, opportunity and hope” for Ghana’s youth.
Highlighting recent successes, the Chancellor commended the University’s steady progress under its new Strategic Plan (2024–2029), particularly in research and innovation. She pointed to the University’s strong performance in the 2025 Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings, where it placed first in Ghana, second in West Africa, and ranked impressively at the global level.
“This recognition reflects the deliberate efforts made under the new Strategic Plan to strengthen our academic and research systems,” she said, citing increased research infrastructure, interdisciplinary collaboration and global partnerships as key drivers of the achievement.
Mrs. Chinery-Hesse also praised the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo for driving innovation and student-focused initiatives.
“Under her leadership, we have seen remarkable developments in innovation, digital transformation and student-focused initiatives,” she remarked. She noted the commissioning of the University’s first Hotspot Comfort Zone as one of many examples of projects that are improving the student experience.
In her closing remarks, the Chancellor addressed the graduating class directly, urging them to embrace the next chapter with integrity, purpose and a commitment to the public good.
“You have earned your honours, and I urge you to wear them with pride. Go forward as proud ambassadors of the University of Ghana,” she said. “Let integrity, commitment, respect and loyalty guide your choices as you step into the next chapter.”
Mrs. Chinery-Hesse also called on the new graduates to maintain strong ties with the University and contribute to its future growth through mentorship, scholarships and impactful projects.
“When you succeed, as we believe you will, remember the University of Ghana,” she stated. “The University needs you: your time, your skills and your resources to continue growing and impacting lives.”
She reminded graduates of their responsibility to support Ghana’s transformation, saying, “Your education has prepared you to contribute to the transformation of society. We are counting on you to help Ghana and the world respond to the complex challenges of our time.”
The Chancellor concluded her address with a message of hope and confidence, assuring the Class of 2025 that they are well-prepared to make a difference.
“May your journey ahead be fulfilling, meaningful and impactful,” she said. “Go with confidence and clarity, knowing that you are ready to make a difference.”
The ceremony ended on a celebratory note, as Mrs. Chinery-Hesse led the congregation in three happy cheers for the graduating class, applauding their achievements and the efforts of families, faculty and staff who supported their academic journey.
The Chancellor’s remarks were delivered as the University conferred degrees on 1,944 students during the July Congregation, held over two days in four sessions. The figure includes 107 PhD candidates, 917 Master’s students and 920 undergraduates.