The United Nations International Day of Older Persons has been celebrated at the Great Hall of the University of Ghana, Legon. 

The celebration drew a large number of Pensioners within the Grater-Accra Region to the University campus. 

Welcoming the gathering, the Director of the Centre for Ageing Studies at the University of Ghana, Professor Joseph Osafo said they were committed to advancing knowledge and practices that addressed the unique challenges faced by older persons. 

The Centre plays a pivotal role in research, education and advocacy by focusing on various aspects of ageing to promote well-being and dignity among older adults.  

He said the institution was committed to fostering future leaders in gerontology and geriatric care and would offer a variety of academic programmes designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address the unique needs of older adults.  

They include an MA in Counselling, an MA in Ageing Studies, an MPhil in Ageing Studies and a PhD in Ageing Studies at the University. 

He said the government needed to prioritise the well-being of its elderly population.  

“To effectively address the challenges faced by older adults, the government should implement comprehensive ageing policies that promote their dignity, rights, and well-being.

These policies should encompass access to healthcare, social services, and support systems tailored to their unique needs”. He said legislation for caregiver support was crucial, recognizing and protecting the rights of those who provided care for older adults.  

“This includes support for informal caregivers, especially women, who form a significant portion of this workforce”.  

The Provost of the College of the College of Humanities, Prof Joseph Yaro, commemorates the 34th United Nations Day of the Older Person called for a reaffirmation of commitment to upholding the fundamental principles of equality, dignity and respect for all individuals, regardless of age.    

He said the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948, proclaimed that all human beings were born free and equal in dignity and rights.  

He also recognised that addressing the challenges faced by older persons required an interdisciplinary approach.  

The Centre for Ages Studies is a vital part of the College.  

Prof Yaro urged the Government to prioritise policies that safeguarded the rights and well-being of the elderly population.   

The Director General of Ghana Health Services, Dr Kumah Aboagye, said the celebration aligned with the national universal health coverage agenda and the global commitment to leave no one behind in the pursuit of sustainable development goals.   

Dr Aboagye said the government with support from international organizations and NGOs introduced a series of interventions aimed at creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for the elderly, which include policies like the National Ageing Policy, Free healthcare for those 70 and older through the National Health Insurance scheme, and social protection programs like LEAP, pension schemes and the establishment of a National Advisory Committee on Ageing as well as Centre for Ageing Studies.