Women’s groups within the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), have launched the university’s 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Week with an insightful seminar aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of breast cancer among staff and students.
The seminar, held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, forms part of efforts by the university’s women-led associations to foster health consciousness and empower the campus community through education and advocacy.
Keynote Speaker and Medical Director at UPSA, Dr. Isaac Newman Arthur, sensitized participants on the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures of breast cancer.
He noted that the disease remains one of the leading causes of death among women globally but emphasised that early detection and lifestyle modification can greatly improve survival outcomes.
Dr. Arthur urged participants to undertake regular medical check-ups and breast self-examinations, stressing that early diagnosis is key to successful treatment.
He further encouraged both men and women to support breast cancer awareness initiatives, noting that “breast cancer is not only a women’s issue—it affects families, communities, and society as a whole.”
Speaking on behalf of the Registrar, the Deputy Director of Administration, Dr. Leticia Akyeampong, described the event as significant, coinciding with UPSA’s 60th anniversary celebration.
She underscored that the university’s commitment to health education reflects its holistic approach to learning.
“Education is not only about acquiring knowledge in the classroom,” Dr. Akyeampong remarked. “It is also about empowering people to make informed choices that promote their health and overall wellbeing.”
The seminar was jointly organised by the Women’s Association of UPSA (WAUPSA), the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UPSA), the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG-UPSA), and the SRC Women’s Commission.
As part of activities, a free breast screening exercise will be organised on campus to encourage early detection and timely medical intervention.
Other speakers included Mrs. Phyllis Owusu-Ansah, CEO of Powersauce Africa; Mr. Kelvin Osei Boateng, General Secretary of Soles of Hope; Ms. Nancy Edem Atsu, President of Rotaract UPSA; and Mary Anane Awuku, CEO of Yes She Can Foundation.
They each highlighted the need for continuous education, advocacy, and community support in combating breast cancer.
The seminar drew a large gathering of students, faculty, and staff who commended the initiative and pledged to serve as advocates for breast cancer awareness within and beyond the university community.
