Safety and Security Directorate Holds Stakeholder Forum to Strengthen Professionalism and Capacity of Security Officers
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism and accountability among its security personnel, the Safety and Security Services Directorate has held a stakeholder forum for security officers to address issues of conduct, use of force and legal responsibility.
The forum brought together security personnel and key University units to discuss issues of professional conduct, use of force and legal responsibility, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen capacity and accountability within the University’s security services.
Addressing personnel during the gathering, the Director of the Safety and Security Services Directorate, Dr. Isaac Amoabeng, noted that the engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the professional development of security staff and aligns with a series of training sessions scheduled for May and June, focusing on the appropriate use of force, self-defence and human rights.
He also addressed security concerns on campus, particularly the theft of mobile phones and accessories during examination periods and indicated that measures have been put in place to address the situation.
Dr. Amoabeng further clarified issues relating to police engagement, stating that an invitation to a police station does not constitute a criminal charge and assured personnel of the University’s support in matters arising strictly from the line of duty.
A representative from the Legal Affairs Directorate, Ms. Ama Hinneh, reminded officers that while the University operates internal disciplinary processes, they remain subject to the laws of Ghana. She stressed that acts such as assault fall outside the scope of internal resolution.
“The University cannot handle assault. If your actions are against the laws of Ghana, then the matter is between you and the state,” she noted.
She encouraged officers to utilise internal grievance and appeals mechanisms where appropriate, adding that the system has already overturned several staff-related decisions this year. She also indicated that the Legal Office is reviewing policies on support for staff who suffer injuries in the line of duty, particularly in relation to medical costs.
Also addressing the forum, the Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Elizier T. Ameyaw-Buronyah, highlighted the critical role of security personnel in shaping the University’s public image. She noted that in an era where incidents are easily captured and shared through mobile devices, the conduct of officers is constantly under public scrutiny.
Dr. Ameyaw-Buronyah urged personnel to exercise restraint and uphold high standards of professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking on behalf of the Human Resource and Organisational Development Directorate (HRODD), an Assistant Registrar, Mr. Nii Torto Quao, advised officers to be guided by the University’s conditions of service. He reaffirmed the Directorate’s commitment to supporting staff in the effective performance of their roles.
The Safety and Security Directorate also announced week-long training programmes scheduled for May and June, which will focus on self-defence techniques, the application of minimal force and human rights. The programme will involve external stakeholders, including the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service.
The forum forms part of the University of Ghana’s broader commitment to staff development, institutional accountability and the promotion of a safe and respectful campus environment.
