University of Ghana to Host Landmark African Migration Conference with AU

The University of Ghana is set to host an international conference on migration titled ‘Rethinking African Mobility: Past Lessons, Present Realities, Future Possibilities’ from November 18th to 20th as part of the 20th Anniversary celebrations of its Centre for Migration Studies. 

The event is being organised in close collaboration with the African Union (AU) and Metropolis International, representing a strong partnership aimed at addressing critical issues of migration, social development, health and humanitarian affairs.

In a recent meeting with the Vice-Chancellor, AU Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development H.E Amma Adomaa Twum-Amoah, who is playing a pivotal role in the conference preparations, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling migration challenges on the continent.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, reiterated the university’s strategic priorities, noting that “impactful research” and “engagement and partnerships” are central to achieving global impact and delivering results swiftly. “We recognise that we cannot do this on our own and are committed to working with our partners, including the African Union,” she added.

The Director of the Centre for Migration Studies, Prof. Mary Setrana and the IDRC Research Chair explained the importance of learning from global experiences while sharing Africa's best practices in migration management. "We are looking at rethinking African migration. We want to explore lessons learned and future mobilities, as well as how African countries and other continents can benefit mutually," Prof. Setrana explained.

She noted that the University of Ghana brings significant expertise and a strong network accumulated over the years to support the academic and policy-focused components of the conference.

The conference will bring together academics, policymakers, government representatives and key stakeholders, including the King of Morocco, who serves as the champion on migration-related issues at the African Union.

Discussions also covered the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering sustained collaboration between the AU and the University of Ghana’s Centre for Migration Studies.