Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, PhD, FGA

Vice President of the Republic of Ghana | Distinguished Scholar, Trailblazing Leader, Advocate for Transformative Education

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a distinguished academic, accomplished leader, and one of Ghana’s most respected stateswomen. A trailblazer in education, governance, and women’s empowerment, she currently serves as Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, bringing to the office decades of visionary leadership and intellectual excellence.

A renowned scholar of English and Literature, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s academic journey reflects a lifelong commitment to knowledge and service. She holds a BA (Hons) in French and English and a Diploma in Education from the University of Cape Coast; a Diploma in Advanced Studies in French from the University of Dakar; and an MA and PhD in Literature from York University, Toronto, Canada. She is a two-time Fulbright Scholar, a Fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, and a Life Fellow of the Commonwealth of Learning.

Throughout her illustrious academic career, Professor Opoku-Agyemang has held numerous leadership positions at the University of Cape Coast, including Head of the Department of English, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Dean of the Board of Graduate Studies, Founding Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and ultimately, Vice Chancellor. In 2008, she made history as the first woman to be appointed Vice Chancellor of a public university in Ghana, an achievement that continues to inspire generations of women and girls across Africa.

Her leadership transcends national borders. From 2018 to 2024, she served as Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, Harare, Zimbabwe, championing inclusive education and women’s leadership on the continent. She has also held prominent roles internationally, including Chairperson of the Africa Board and President of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), amplifying Africa’s voice on the global education stage.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s public service is equally distinguished. As Ghana’s Minister for Education from 2013 to 2017, she led far-reaching reforms that expanded access to quality education and strengthened the foundations of Ghana’s educational system. Her commitment to equity, excellence, and innovation remains a hallmark of her leadership.

A celebrated figure globally, she has received numerous national and international honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to education and leadership, including:

• Distinguished Fellow Award (University of Cape Coast)

• Officer of the Order of the Volta (for Academic Distinction)

• Ghana Women of Excellence Award (Education)

• Multiple honorary doctorates from prestigious institutions, including the University of Cape Coast, Grand Valley State University, Winston Salem State University, and the University of the West Indies

• Global Leadership Award, University of South Florida

• Recognition for advancing international education, School for International Training (twice)

Her influence extends through her service on several national and international boards and committees, including:

• The College of Physicians and Surgeons (Eminent Citizen)

• Centre for Democratic Governance (CDD-Ghana)

• UNESCO Executive Board

• Global Advisory Council of World Learning Inc.

• Editorial Board of The Harriet Tubman Series on the African Diaspora, York University, Canada

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang embodies the power of education as a force for transformation. Her vision is deeply rooted in empowering communities, advancing gender equity, and building resilient institutions for national development. She is widely admired for her intellect, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is a proud mother of three and grandmother of two, values family deeply, and continues to inspire young leaders, particularly women, to lead with courage, integrity, and excellence.