The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), through its Department of Business Administration, in collaboration with the Women’s Office of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UPSA), has held a dialogue examining the experiences of Black women in higher education and the opportunities for building a more inclusive academic environment.
Held on Thursday, 19 March 2026, the dialogue brought together students, academics, and professionals for a timely conversation on the systemic barriers that continue to shape women’s experiences in academia, including limited promotion pathways, the undervaluation of research, and the challenges of navigating institutional cultures.
Chairperson for the event, Professor Helen Arkorful, underscored the importance of confidence, voice and visibility for women within academic spaces. She encouraged participants to remain intentional about asserting themselves and contributing meaningfully to the institutions in which they serve.
In her welcome address, the outgoing Head of the Department of Business Administration, Dr Ummu Markwei, described the dialogue as both relevant and necessary at a time when increasing numbers of women are pursuing academic careers.
She noted that although progress has been made, many women still encounter cultural and structural barriers that affect their academic growth and professional advancement.
The dialogue featured Professor Kris Marsh, Professor of Sociology at the University of Maryland, who called for academic environments that allow Black women to thrive without having to suppress their identity or individuality.
Reflecting on her own journey in academia, she emphasised the value of purpose, community and student impact in sustaining academic careers.
Other panellists included Dr Natalie Williams, Associate Professor of Speech Communication at the University of Maryland, and Professor Candace Moore, Clinical Professor at the University of Maryland, alongside Professor Helen Arkorful.
Discussions during the dialogue explored a range of issues, including the unspoken rules that often shape academic progression, the balancing of professional and personal responsibilities, the realities of organisational politics, and the need for women to take deliberate steps towards leadership and career development.
Also speaking at the event, the Head of the Department of Business Administration, Dr Munkaila Abdulai, observed that traditional academic structures have not always been designed with adequate consideration for the realities faced by women.
He stressed the importance of changing that narrative and called for greater participation of women in decision-making spaces across the academy.
The Acting Director of the Centre for International Education and Collaboration (CIEC), Dr Edwin Ayernor, welcomed the guest speakers and participants to UPSA and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to promoting inclusive academic engagement and meaningful institutional dialogue.
The high-level dialogue formed part of UPSA’s broader efforts to foster equity, deepen critical conversations on representation and inclusion, and support the advancement of women in academia.
This focus is consistent with the University’s recent public engagement on women’s empowerment and its announced dialogue on the experiences of Black women in academia.
