University of Ghana immortalises GK Nukunya

The Department of Sociology at the University of Ghana, Legon has honored the legacy of Professor Emeritus Godwin Kwaku Nukunya by renaming its Graduate Seminar Room in his memory. The renaming took place during a ceremony held at the Department of Sociology on August 26, 2026.

Nukunya, a distinguished anthropologist and former Head of the Department, passed away on January 6, 2023 at the age of 88. He had studied for his Bachelors Degree in Sociology at the University of Ghana in 1961, and later earned his PhD in Social Anthropology in 1964 from the London School of Economics. His doctoral thesis focused on 'Kinship and Marriage among the Anlo-Ewe'.

Throughout his career, Nukunya made significant contributions to the field of Social Anthropology. He taught all three Social Anthropology courses and authored a widely acclaimed book titled 'Tradition and Change in Ghana'. In addition to his academic pursuits, he held important positions such as Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana and served on various university committees and state boards both within and outside Ghana.

At the ceremony, numerous speakers paid tribute to Nukunya's remarkable achievements and the impact he had on countless students and mentees throughout his illustrious career.