Professor Esi Sutherland‑Addy of the Institute of African Studies at the University of Ghana delivered the keynote address at the opening of the third annual conference of the Literature Association of Ghana (LITAG). The three‑day event, held from 7 to 9 October at the Balme Library, focused on “Literature as a Construct of National and Pan‑African Identity.”
In her speech, Prof. Sutherland‑Addy stressed that Ghana cannot expect meaningful connections with the diaspora if the country remains passive in receiving and engaging those seeking to reconnect with their roots. She said diaspora engagement must go beyond government initiatives and become a broader social and cultural effort. “It’s not just a governmental thing. It’s a social issue,” she remarked.
The professor also urged Ghanaians, especially young people, to develop a greater consciousness of the country’s cultural links with the African diaspora. She argued that understanding the origins of cultural expressions that have travelled across the world is essential to the idea of return.
Vice‑President of LITAG, Prof. Philomena Ama Okyeso Yeboah, added a parallel call for English language experts to be included on educational committees tasked with addressing the falling standards of English in Ghana. The proportion of candidates obtaining A1 to C6 in the 2026 WASSCE fell to 62.40%, down from 69% in 2025.
Prof. Yeboah said university language experts are key stakeholders who understand the challenges students face, yet they are not adequately consulted in efforts to raise standards. “Those who are willing to speak and profess solutions, they’re not consulted,” she said.
The conference honours Emeritus Professor Kofi Anyidoho and brings together scholars, teachers and writers dedicated to the study of literature in Ghana, Africa and beyond. The event provides a professional platform for scholars, teachers and writers to engage in the study, teaching and advancement of literary scholarship.
Looking ahead, Prof. Sutherland‑Addy’s remarks suggest a push for more inclusive, community‑driven approaches to diaspora relations, while Prof. Yeboah’s comments highlight the need for stronger academic involvement in national language policy. Both speakers signal that Ghana’s future cultural and educational strategies will likely involve broader stakeholder participation.
