University of Ghana enhances gender inclusivity in revised statutes

The University of Ghana has revised its statutes to enhance gender inclusivity, Prof. Gordon Akanzuwine Awandare, Pro-Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs has announced.

The announcement was made during the university's launch of a new five-year strategic plan on Wednesday, 17 July 2024, at the Great Hall.

Prof. Awandare highlighted the significant changes in the revised statutes, which now incorporate gender-neutral pronouns instead of exclusively using "he" or "she."

He stated: “One of the significant changes is our shift towards a gender-inclusive stance. The language has been updated to reflect more inclusive terms, moving away from solely 'he' or 'she' references.”

The revision aims to align the university’s laws with current and emerging national and institutional policies and processes.

“The revision is in furtherance of the Vice Chancellor’s vision which is to make the institute a vibrant and responsive governance and management system, and also to update and align the statutes with current and emerging national and university-level policies and operational processes,” Prof. Awandare added.

The previous statutes, established in 2014, already included provisions to promote gender inclusivity, aiming to foster an environment free from gender-based discrimination and bias.

Since 2020, the University of Ghana has faced several distressing incidents targeting its LGBTQ community, reflecting broader societal and legislative challenges in Ghana.

A notable incident occurred in January 2024, when a gay man was brutally assaulted on the university’s Legon campus.

The attack began when women who had accommodated him discovered his sexual orientation.

The following day, he suffered further violence from a refuse collector, highlighting the pervasive hostility and dangers faced by LGBTQ individuals within the university environment.