The Path to Prestige: Prof. Joseph Kwasi Agyemang’s Academic Journey and the Challenges of PhD Supervision in Ghana

Prof. Agyemang with hus former UNISA lecturer and thesis supervisor, Prof. Cameron Modisane

In a recent academic development, Prof (Dr. Dr. Dr.) Joseph Kwasi Agyemang has been appointed as an Academic Associate (Professor Extraordinarius) at the University of South Africa (UNISA), in addition to his role as an external supervisor for doctoral and master’s students. This appointment underscores his exceptional academic achievements and his international recognition. However, it prompts a critical examination of whether Prof. Agyemang could have attained this prestigious position had he completed all three of his unique PhDs solely in Ghana. Furthermore, this scenario sheds light on broader systemic issues within Ghanaian universities, particularly the challenges imposed by some dissertation supervisors. This piece will explore these dimensions, highlighting the need for significant reforms in Ghana’s higher education system.

Prof. Agyemang’s Academic Achievement
Prof. Agyemang’s recent appointment at UNISA is a testament to his remarkable scholarly contributions and his ability to garner international acclaim. His unique academic journey, marked by the completion of three distinct PhDs, reflects his dedication and expertise across diverse fields. Such achievements are indicative of a global recognition of his research capabilities and scholarly impact.

To understand whether Prof. Agyemang could have achieved this level of success had he remained in Ghana, it is essential to consider several factors: the internationalization of academic institutions, the quality of research infrastructure, and the nature of academic recognition within Ghana.

The Role of Internationalization in Academic Success

The international academic community increasingly values cross-border collaborations and global research networks. Institutions like UNISA offer a platform for scholars to engage with a broader audience and access extensive resources, thereby enhancing their research capabilities and visibility. For academics, such international positions are often crucial for advancing their careers and gaining recognition.

In contrast, while Ghanaian universities are growing in stature, they may not yet provide the same level of international visibility or collaborative opportunities. The disparity in global recognition can impact the career progression of scholars who primarily work within the national system. This gap may affect their ability to reach similar heights as those who have access to more internationally connected institutions.

Challenges in Ghanaian PhD Supervision
The path to achieving international recognition is often paved with challenges, and for many PhD students in Ghana, these challenges are exacerbated by problematic supervision practices. Key issues include:

Inconsistent and Insufficient Guidance: Many PhD students report receiving inconsistent or inadequate guidance from their supervisors. Effective supervision is crucial for navigating the complexities of doctoral research, and a lack of clear direction can lead to delays and subpar research outcomes.

Administrative and Bureaucratic Obstacles: Excessive bureaucracy within Ghanaian universities often complicates the PhD process. Students may face numerous administrative hurdles that distract from their research focus and prolong their time to completion.

Limited Research Resources: Access to research facilities, funding, and academic resources is often limited in Ghanaian institutions. This lack of support can hinder the quality and scope of research, affecting students’ ability to produce impactful work.

Challenges in Networking and Exposure: Opportunities for academic networking and exposure to global research trends are often limited. This lack of exposure can restrict students’ ability to engage with international research communities and gain recognition for their work.

These challenges contribute to a perception that pursuing a PhD in Ghana may be less advantageous compared to studying abroad. Many students are thus compelled to seek opportunities outside Ghana to access better resources, support, and international recognition.

The Urgent Need for Reform
Addressing the challenges faced by PhD students in Ghana requires comprehensive reform in several areas:

Enhancing Supervision Quality: Universities must invest in training programmes for supervisors to ensure they provide consistent, constructive and supportive guidance. Effective supervision is essential for fostering high-quality research and student success.

Streamlining Administrative Processes: Simplifying bureaucratic procedures can help students focus more on their research and less on navigating institutional obstacles. Reducing red tape and implementing efficient processes are crucial for improving the PhD experience.

Improving Research Infrastructure: Investments in research facilities, libraries, and digital resources are necessary to support high-quality research. Providing adequate resources will enable students to conduct more comprehensive and impactful studies.

Fostering International Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships with international institutions and promoting global academic exchange can enhance students’ research opportunities and visibility. Building a network of international collaborations will benefit both students and the broader academic community.

Conclusion
Prof. Joseph Kwasi Agyemang’s appointment as an Academic Associate at UNISA is a significant achievement that highlights the value of international academic engagement and the impact of diverse academic experiences. While his success is a testament to his exceptional capabilities, it also underscores the systemic challenges within Ghanaian higher education.

The issues faced by PhD students in Ghana, including inconsistent supervision, bureaucratic obstacles, and limited resources, create barriers that can hinder academic progress and drive students to seek opportunities abroad. Addressing these challenges through meaningful reform is crucial for enhancing the quality of higher education in Ghana and ensuring that students have the support they need to succeed.

As Ghanaian universities continue to develop, it is imperative to focus on improving supervision practices, streamlining administrative processes, and fostering international collaborations. By addressing these areas, Ghana can better support its scholars and position itself as a hub for academic excellence, ultimately benefiting both its students and the global academic community.

The writer of this article, Dr. Richmond Acheampong, is a journalist, columnist, PR expert and communication studies lecturer at Christian Service University. Email: [email protected]