University of Ghana reappoints Mary Chinery-Hesse as Chancellor

The University of Ghana Council has officially announced the reappointment of Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse as Chancellor of the esteemed institution.

Following a thorough selection process, the Council, in its meeting held on July 6, 2023, approved her appointment for a second five-year term, set to commence on August 1, 2023, and conclude on July 31, 2028.

Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse, the first female Chancellor of the University of Ghana, brings with her a remarkable career in both Ghana’s Civil Service and the United Nations.

Recognized as a prominent figure in economic and development matters, she has dedicated her efforts to championing human and women’s rights, while also advocating for African imperatives, conflict resolution, and mediation.

A trailblazer in her field, Mrs. Chinery-Hesse holds the distinction of being the first African woman appointed as the Resident Coordinator of the UN System, as well as the first African woman to attain the rank of Under Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Since assuming the role of Chancellor in August 2018, Mrs. Chinery-Hesse has demonstrated her exceptional capabilities in various capacities. Notable among her achievements are her role as a Friend of the African Union Panel of the Wise, a former Chief Advisor to the President of Ghana, a retired Deputy Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and a former Vice-Chairperson of the National Development Planning Commission.

Furthermore, Mrs. Chinery-Hesse’s outstanding contributions have garnered recognition from her alma mater, the University of Ghana, which awarded her an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 1991. In November 2021, she received another prestigious accolade, an honorary Doctor of Science Degree in Economics from the University of London. This recognition has also fostered a renewed connection between the University of Ghana and the University of London, as both institutions share a longstanding history dating back to the establishment of the University College of the Gold Coast, where University of London degrees were conferred upon its students.

The University of Ghana in a press release on behalf of the university community congratulated Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse on her reappointment as Chancellor.