The University of Ghana and the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management (CIHRM) have officially announced the formation of the Professorial Chair in Human Resource Management.

The Professorial Chair is expected to strengthen HR research, training, and policy engagement at a national level, marking a significant step toward bridging the long-standing gap between theory and practice in Ghana’s HR landscape.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at the RS Amegashie Auditorium of the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS).

This was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions.

The partnership aims to address pressing challenges, such as talent shortages despite the availability of vacancies, one of the key drivers of rising unemployment in the country.

The President of CIHRM, Mrs. Florence Hutchful, underscored the link between effective HR management and national development.

“Ghana’s development depends on a well-trained and effectively managed workforce. This is an essential pillar and the foundation of any thriving nation,” she said.

She also expressed concern over the declining workplace ethics and productivity, citing examples of managerial neglect and employee misconduct.

“At a recent business forum, the President himself expressed concern about the exploitation of employment opportunities by some workers. This behavior reflects a deeper challenge confronting our national HR values,” she noted.

Mrs. Hutchful further highlighted CIHRM’s initiatives to elevate HR professionalism, including the upcoming rollout of national HR standards.

She emphasized the importance of character and ethics in the workplace, stating that staff development must focus not only on competencies but also on shaping ethical behavior.

“This Professorial Chair will drive context-specific research to inform effective HR policy and practice, an important step toward Ghana’s growth agenda,” she added.

Founder and CEO of L’aine Services and co-founder of Legacy Girls College, Mrs. Ellen Hagan, who is also the Chair of the Fundraising Committee, stressed the importance of equipping HR professionals with the right tools to support national workforce development.
 
“We must support research and create frameworks for key initiatives. That’s why we’re starting with a press conference—to raise awareness. This marks the first time such an initiative is being launched in Ghana”, she said.

Mrs. Hagan clarified that this was not just a ceremonial position, adding that “Chair is dedicated to Human Resource Management, which shows how seriously we’re beginning to take people management in this country.”

“For years, I’ve witnessed brilliant people being frustrated due to poor leadership, unclear direction, and untrained managers. This Chair aims to correct that”, she added.

The Chief Executive Officer of CIHRM, Dr. Francis Eduku, applauded the initiative, stating that research is the only way to advance the HR profession.

“The idea behind the Chair is to appoint someone who not only understands the HR terrain but also has the competence to work with the institute to drive HR research in Ghana,” he noted.

He also made a passionate call for financial support, noting the substantial investment required to sustain a five-year tenure for the Professorial Chair.

“We need a significant financial commitment to make this a success. This Chair is a game changer, and we must all contribute to realize its full impact”, he said.

He challenged the current education system, questioning why HR is not introduced at the Senior High School level.

“HR is all about people. If we think people are critical, then we need to start early. Why should people only study HR at the university? It’s something we need to challenge the minds of policymakers about - HR must be embedded in national education strategies”, he said.

The Head of the Department of Human Resource Management at UGBS, Professor Obi Berko Damoah, reiterated the university’s commitment to national development.

“As a higher education institution, we partner with professional bodies to show our contribution to society. This partnership with CIHRM is a demonstration of that vision.” With industry leaders, academics, and policymakers in attendance, the launch of the Professorial Chair laid the foundation for a future-ready HR ecosystem”, he said.

To raise awareness and build momentum around the initiative, several key events have been scheduled throughout the year.

These include a Corporate Walk (June 14), a major HR Conference (June 19), an HR Community Forum (July 17), a CEO Roundtable (August 22), a Public Lecture (October 16), and an End-of-Year Review (November 22).

Each event is designed to drive engagement, share insights, and measure progress toward establishing a stronger, more strategic HR framework in Ghana.