Centre for Social Policy Studies - CSPS at UG

Africa is at a turning point, and the conversation is happening right here at the University of Ghana! 🌍🇬🇭
The Centre for Social Policy Studies (CSPS) recently wrapped up a successful international conference on "The Political Economy of Just Energy Transitions and Inequality in Africa."

We moved beyond the buzzwords to tackle the real issues: How do we ensure the global "green scramble" for minerals like lithium doesn't lead to a "Resource Curse 2.0"? How can we make sure the shift to renewable energy benefits every Ghanaian household?

From government announcements of a new Green Transition Fund to insights from global experts at the Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) and OXFAM, it was two days of intense, policy-shifting dialogue

Our goal is clear: Africa must not just be a spectator in the green revolution; we must lead it. ⚡️🌱
Check out the highlights from the sessions at ISSER below! 📸👇

Did you know?

Women own nearly half of MSMEs in Ghana, but many still face major barriers to growing their businesses.

Limited access to finance.
Restricted land ownership.
Challenges entering high-value markets.

So what needs to change?

On 24 March 2026, we're bringing leaders from government, financial institutions, academia, civil society, and women entrepreneurs together for a Round-table Dialogue on Women’s Entrepreneurship Development.

The convening will explore how Ghana can:
- Strengthen institutional systems supporting women entrepreneurs
- Expand access to finance and productive resources
- Improve market opportunities for women-led businesses
- Turn policy commitments into practical action

Because when women entrepreneurs succeed, families thrive, communities prosper, and economies grow.

,

William and Flora Hewlett Foundation

We’re going LIVE! 🎥

Our conference is coming to you wherever you are — streaming directly on YouTube. Join us for insightful sessions, inspiring speakers, and engaging discussions.

Grab your spot and tune in live!
🔗 Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/live/mFdjQVZen-Q?si=t5zU1DqvmkO5Byu1

Tag a friend who shouldn’t miss this 👇

🎓 Celebrating Our CSPS Graduates

Recently, the Centre for Social Policy Studies (CSPS) at the University of Ghana proudly celebrated the graduation of another remarkable cohort.

While these photos arrived a little later, the joy and pride from that day remain just as strong. It was a special moment to recognize the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our graduates as they completed this important stage of their academic journey.

We congratulate all our graduates and wish them great success as they go on to contribute to research, policy development, and positive social change in Ghana and beyond.

👏 Once again, congratulations to the CSPS Class of 2025!

🎓 CSPS Bi-Weekly Seminar Series – 2025/2026 Academic Year

Are you ready to share your research with a diverse and engaged audience?

The Centre for Social Policy Studies (CSPS), University of Ghana invites faculty, researchers, and practitioners to choose a slot and present at our bi-weekly seminar series.

👥 Your guaranteed audience includes:
✔ Faculty from UG and beyond
✔ Policy practitioners & industry experts
✔ Students and researchers

🗓 Available dates: Feb–April 2026
🕑 Thursdays | 2:00–3:00 PM
💻 Virtual sessions

📩 Contact us: [email protected]

🌍 Call for Papers: International Conference on the Political Economy of [Just] Energy Transitions and Inequality in Africa
📅 30th–31st March 2026
📍 University of Ghana, Legon (Hybrid)

The Centre for Social Policy Studies (CSPS), University of Ghana, and the Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) invite paper submissions examining how political and institutional changes influence Africa’s renewable energy transitions and questions of equity, justice, and inclusion.

🗓️ Abstract deadline: 30 November 2025
📩 Submit to: [email protected] and [email protected]

Read the full Call for Papers here 👇🏽

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n3Ck9CjPgr_J7b5_f2i4X8wCvQGx3xuR/view?usp=drive_link

📢 ATTENTION ASPIRING POLICY LEADERS!

The Centre for Social Policy Studies at the University of Ghana is thrilled to announce that applications for the Master of Research and Public Policy (MRPP) Programme are now OPEN for the January 2026 intake!
This 2-year, evening program is meticulously structured to equip you with the advanced analytical and leadership skills necessary to drive effective policy change.
Program Highlights:
• 1st Year Core Courses: Foundations for Public Policy, Public Policy Development and Analysis, and specialized Research Methods.
• 2nd Year Focus: Research, Policy and Public Interface, Ethics in Research, and extensive Thesis work.

• Entry Requirement: A second class bachelor's degree or equivalent.
Don't miss this opportunity to advance your expertise without interrupting your career.
Find out more about the application requirements and processes here: sgs.ug.edu.gh
Ready to apply? Click the link below:

https://bit.ly/3LpuUiv

🌍 The Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD II) is happening in Doha, Qatar (Nov 4–6, 2025)!

Thirty years after the first summit, the world faces new and complex challenges — from climate change to rising inequalities.

To ensure Africa’s voice is heard, IDEAs and GETSPA are organizing two pre-summit webinars on the theme:
✨ “Countdown to the Second World Summit for Social Development: Towards Transformative Social Policies for the Post-Doha Agenda in Africa.”

These webinars will explore research on how economic and social policies can work together to promote equality, decent work, and stronger social systems — and help shape a shared vision for the future.

Register here:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jM9PK4thRGecRJ6uKb1ARQ #/registration

The Centre for Social Policy Studies (CSPS) at the University of Ghana has strengthened its partnership with UNICEF Ghana to promote evidence-based policymaking and social development. A CSPS delegation met with UNICEF Ghana to discuss joint research and cooperation on child rights and social policy. Both sides committed to developing a roadmap for collaboration, marking a key step toward a stronger partnership. University of Ghana, Legon