UG, CIHRMG launch Ghana’s first HR professorial chair to transform workforce development

The University of Ghana (UG) and the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, Ghana (CIHRMG) have launched a Professorial Chair in Human Resource Management. This is the first of its kind in Ghana.

The launch took place on Tuesday, May 13, at the University of Ghana Business School. It attracted academia, industry leaders, policymakers, students, and media representatives.

This initiative aims to connect HR theory with practice. It will drive research, shape policy, and support national development priorities.

Dr. Ellen Hagan delivered the keynote address. She is the Chair of the Fundraising Committee and a respected figure in HR.

Dr. Hagan stated that this Chair represents more than an academic achievement. “This is about harnessing brainpower to reshape how we manage people,” she said.

She emphasized that effective HR is essential for organizational success. The Chair will produce relevant research and influence HR policy across sectors.

Dr. Hagan called this initiative “long overdue.” She urged stakeholders to take ownership: “This Chair is a critical lever for leadership and development.”

Mrs. Florence Hutchful, President of CIHRMG, also spoke at the event. She linked effective HR management to economic growth and productivity.

She highlighted ongoing challenges in workplace ethics and performance. Urgent reforms are needed to address these issues.

“At a recent forum, the President raised concerns about workplace behavior,” she noted. “This reflects deeper issues we must confront.”

Mrs. Hutchful described the Chair as a timely response to these challenges. She outlined CIHRMG’s plans for national HR standards and ethical conduct.

“We must build capacity with both competence and character,” she stressed.

Professor Obi Damoah also spoke at the launch. He heads the Department of Organisation and Human Resource Management at UGBS.

He called this launch a historic turning point for collaboration between CIHRMG and UG. “Now is the time for all of us to contribute,” he concluded.