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The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, has been elected Chair of the Council of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) for an initial two-year term, effective January 1, 2026.
Her election was announced on January 8, 2026, by the London-based headquarters of the Association. In addition to her new role, Prof Amfo will also serve as Chair of the Executive Committee of Council, providing leadership and strategic direction to the Association’s governance and policy structures.
Prof Amfo brings over 24 years of experience in academia and university administration to the position. As Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, she has overseen major institutional reforms, including a multi-million-dollar digitalisation programme aimed at enhancing teaching, learning, research, and administrative efficiency. Her previous roles at the University include Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, Dean of the School of Languages, and Head of the Department of Linguistics.
Beyond the University of Ghana, Prof Amfo has contributed extensively to higher education governance through active participation in regional and global academic networks. She previously served on the Governing Council of the Association of Commonwealth Universities and was inducted as one of eight new members following her appointment on August 1, 2024.
Reacting to her election, Prof Amfo expressed gratitude to the Council for the confidence reposed in her, noting the growing importance of the Association’s role in connecting universities across the Commonwealth amid global changes.
She said she looks forward to working closely with the Secretary-General, Council members, and the Association’s diverse membership to strengthen collaboration, promote equity and inclusion, and ensure higher education remains a driver of sustainable development and societal transformation.
The Secretary-General and Chief Executive of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, Prof Colin Riordan, welcomed Prof Amfo’s election, describing her as well suited to lead the Council. He cited her global outlook, proven leadership, and deep experience in higher education as key strengths that will support the implementation of the ACU’s Road to 2030 strategy.
Prof Riordan also commended the outgoing Chair of Council, Prof Cheryl de la Rey, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, whose term ended on December 31, 2025. Prof de la Rey was honoured with the Symons Award at the 2025 ACU Congress in Nairobi, Kenya, in recognition of her service to the Association.
The University of Ghana community has welcomed the international appointment, congratulating Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo on the recognition of her leadership and contribution to global higher education.
