Book Launch: Contemporary Issues in Ageing in Ghana: A Multidisciplinary Approach
On 28th November, 2022, the Centre for Ageing Studies (CFAS), in collaboration with the Geriatric Fellowship programme of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons launched a book titled “Contemporary Issues in Ageing in Ghana: A Multidisciplinary Approach”. This event took place at the Kofi Drah conference hall at the University of Ghana, Legon. Persons present at the launch included staff of CFAS, students and affiliates of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, members of the university community, and other invited guests.
The event started with an opening prayer by Rev. Dr. Samuel Ayete-Nyampong, followed by a welcome address from the Director of CFAS, Prof. Mavis Dako-Gyeke. In her address, Prof. Dako-Gyeke indicated that the useful contributions made by scholars and practitioners in the book would offer readers insights on modern issues on ageing in Africa from a multidisciplinary perspective. The chairman of the book launch, Prof. Felix Asante (Pro-Vice Chancellor, Office of Research, Innovation and Development, University of Ghana) in his remarks, stated that since population ageing is gaining notability in Ghana, acquiring an understanding about contemporary ageing issues in the country’s context is essential to facilitate development of interventions that would create age-friendly communities to promote healthy ageing. His remarks were corroborated by that of the Guest Speaker, Prof. Richard Adanu (Rector, Ghana College of Physicians & Surgeons), as he asserted that it is imperative for the promotion of a national discourse on ageing related issues to uncover solutions to enhance the wellbeing of older persons.
In the delivery of their remarks, the editors of the book, Prof. C. Charles Mate-Kole, and Rev. Prof. Akye Essuman highlighted that the book was one that would stir up conversations on issues relating to ageing in modern Ghana and encourage all key stakeholders to adopt a collaborative effort to address pertinent issues affecting older persons. They also indicated that subsequent volumes of the book will be produced in due time.
Prof. Angela Ofori-Atta (Department of Psychiatry, University of Ghana Medical School) was invited to deliver her report on the review of the book. In her assertions, she specified that the book contained relevant content that could be of benefit to persons in the academic and practice fields. She also added that subsequent volumes of the book should focus on other key areas, including the sexuality of older persons. After the book review, Prof. Dan Ofori, Provost of the College of Humanities, University of Ghana, officially launched it, followed by the auctioning of the book.
The book publisher, Mr. Fred Awuku Labi (C.E.O Digibooks) delivered a brief remark, and the Chairman gave his closing statements. Dr. Delali Dovie then delivered a vote of thanks to all present, and the event was officially closed after Rev. Dr. Samuel Ayete-Nyampong had said a prayer.