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Item Power, knowledge and the politics of gender in the Global South(European Journal of Politics and Gender, 2018) Medie, P.A.; Kang,A.J.Critical feminists have argued that research on women and gender is not sufficiently ‘global’ in its representation of scholars and perspectives. We draw on these works to argue that the scholarship on women, gender, and politics does not sufficiently consider the effects of the global order in the Global South. We propose the adoption of a ‘global lens’ to address this gap. We further examine the representation of South-based scholars by analyzing leading women, gender, and politics journals, and find that they are severely under-represented as authors. We propose steps to address this underrepresentation and to decolonize the scholarship.Item The Role Of Non-Governmental Organizations In The Attainment Of SDG Four(University of Ghana, 2021-11) Abagi, S.A.This research assesses the role of Non-Governmental Organizations in the attainment of SDG four. In a country which is largely polarized politically, governments in power have over the years taken to capitalization of social interventions and developments to garner political credits for elections. The phenomena, among other things has led to a situation where other contributors of the nation’s developments are often not seen nor given the necessary regard to motivate their efforts in improving the development of the country. To this end, this research sort to look at Non Governmental Organizations in the education sector of Ghana, and ascertain their contributions to the development of the sector in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4. The research aims at making a modest contribution in highlighting their roles and functions in society. Situated in the Pluralism theory of State Development, the research aimed at discovering what the contributions of NGOs are, in improving education in Ghana, what impact these NGOs have had in attaining SDG four in Ghana and whether or not, the perceived non-recognisition of their work has any impact on the discharge of their mandate. Using interviews as the main tool for data gathering, primary data was sourced from officers of Lead for Ghana, CAMFED, Ghana Education Service, Ministry of Education and the Northern Association of Non-Governmental Organizations in Education. Secondary sources of information included internet sources, journal articles, books, reports, and others. The study revealed that these NGOs are contributing significantly to increasing access to education and improving on the quality of education in the country. The study also revealed that aside from governments' initiatives to provide physical educational structures, there is a more significant challenge to improving quality of teachers to schools especially in rural Ghana. NGOs like Lead for Ghana have challenged the Status Quo in improving the caliber of teachers recruited to deprived communities in the country. The study also revealed that to attain the targets of SDG four, NGOs have an important role acting as checks and pressure groups for the Ministry of Education in the formulation of Education policies to attain the targets of SDG four in Ghana. In order to continue making contributions to the development of education in the country and attaining SDG four, the study recommends an implementation of a structure by government to appreciate the efforts of these NGOs.It is recommended that the Ministry of education put in place a system that allows for NGOs to detail their work structure and focus areas in order to avoid concertartion of NGOs in particular regions. Results from the study also reveals that, NGOs and their work in education is so crucial to the overall development of the nation hence, the need to strategicall harness the resources possesd by these NGOs to the benefit of the nation.Item An Assessment Of The Socio-Economic Effects Of Terrorism In The Sahel Region Of West Africa(University of Ghana, 2021-07) Debrah, R.Researchers and scholars have defined terrorism differently in their own terms. This is due to the fact, one cannot be specific about the motives, targets and methods of terrorism since these categories differ from case-to-case and also, the complication of unravelling the overlaps within each of these categories in effect makes its definition difficult. However, in general, terrorism can be defined as the use of violence or threat of violence to a deliberately to cause fear. The intention behind the causing of this fear among their targets mostly done to pressure or to intimidate societies, a group of people or governments to give in to something, usually in the quest of pursuing goals which are mostly religious, ideological or political in nature. The issue of terrorism has been a major concern in the Sahel Region West African lately, due to the emergence of numerous terrorist group in the region. Terrorist activities have drastically changed the situation in the area, though not much of it has been documented. This study therefore aimed to determine the socio-economic effects of terrorism in Sahel region of West Africa. The study was conducted using Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in the Sahel Region of West Africa as a case study due to the constant terrorist attacks these three countries have suffered during the past decade which still persist with no sign of ending soon. The 2012 Tuareg uprising in Northern Mali which led to the influx of terrorist groups and organisations coming in to assist the fighters against the state later gave rise to extremism. These extremist groups eventually spread across the Sahel Region with their activities causing devastating consequences on the socio-economic lives of citizens and governments in the region. The study employed the use secondary and primary data. The secondary data used were books, journal articles, internet sources and primary data was gathered using semi-structured interviews to collect relevant data from experts in the field of terrorism. The study found that terrorism activities have had major effects on the economic and social activities in these countries in the Sahel Region of West Africa with education, health, food security, human life, businesses, industries, the sector and the economies of these countries affected. Most citizens have left their communities for other areas closing and leaving their businesses and economic activities. A number of trained workers who offer essentials services have fled the area, leaving some of the basic activities almost deserted. The education and health sector have been the most affected as teachers and medical practitioners fled the region and left public schools and hospitals without professionals in the fields. This study recommends that the governments of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger and also ECOWAS take measures to address the already existing socio-economic problems facing their countries and, also that of the grievances of their citizens. It also recommended that the various counter terrorism initiatives must be revived and provided with the necessary logistics to fight these extremists.Item The Impact Of The Media On Intra-State Conflict Vis-À-Vis International Politics: The Case Of Venezuela (2002)(University Of Ghana, 2020-07) Amarteifio, N.A.The intra-state violence of the post-Cold War era, continues to demonstrate the perilous effects of the mass media on the social cohesion of states. This study therefore examines the impact of the media on intra-state conflict vis-à-vis international politics, the case of Venezuela (2002). Specifically, the study aimed at ascertaining the underlying conditions that precipitated the 2002 Venezuelan political crisis, the media’s role in shaping the events leading to the said crisis, and the factors that compromised the media’s role in managing the conflict. Drawing on qualitative analysis of secondary sources, the study identified two major underlying conditions that precipitated the political crisis, categorised as domestic conditions and foreign conditions. The domestic conditions include years of marginalisation of largely Amerindian, Afro-Venezuelan and Mulatto-Mestizo ethnic groups; enforcement of the constitutional requirement for a first-time direct election in the nation’s main labour union (CTV); implementation of Mission Zamora (the land redistribution programme); and introduction of the hydrocarbons law which required that the State Oil Company (PDVSA) holds not less than fifty-one percent stake in any new joint venture with foreign oil companies and an increase in the minimum royalty rate of 1% to 30%. The foreign conditions were Chavez’s role in OPEC’s reduction in oil supply and the corresponding rise in oil prices; his alliance and supply of oil to U.S. isolated Cuba; refusal to allow US use its airspace for operations in Colombia; visit to Saddam Hussain’s Iraq, Gaddafi’s Libya, anti-neoliberal policies and public criticism of U.S.’s ‘war on terror’ in Afghanistan. The findings further suggest that the media employed white propaganda and mainly assumed a collaborative role in connivance with the elite and their foreign affiliates, which played a significant role in escalating the political crisis. The media’s role in managing the conflict was also compromised by lack of institutional autonomy, undue influence by media moguls, and poor journalism ethics and standards. The study concludes that the media landscape was characterised by journalistic interventionism which negatively impacted the intra-state crisis. As much as the private media is largely to blame for the escalation of the crisis, it then again took all but the private media to defuse the political tension. Grassroot participation in the political process, attachment to the government’s political programmes, word-of-mouth communication and military loyalists moderated and eventually neutralised the adverse effect of the media campaign to oust Chavez. Also, President Chavez’s timely call for restraint upon his reinstatement, helped to deescalate the political crisis which could have degenerated into a civil war. The promotion of participatory democracy; and multi-stakeholder partnership at both the development and implementation phases of a policy change or reform, may help to mitigate potential resistance and media campaigns that may be aimed at destabilising the state.Item Aviation And International Security: The Case Of Ghana Airports Company Limited(University Of Ghana, 2021-10) Amo-Koree, N.Security is very important in the aviation industry. Aviation security is the act of preventing any unlawful interferences that can jeopardize or cause harm to the safety of passengers, aircrafts and infrastructures of an airport. The research utilized the concept of transnational security as its conceptual framework. The study adopted a qualitative research method in order to enable the researcher access the views of respondents in their most original state. The research was carried out in Ghana Airport Company Limited (Kotoka International Airport) the international airport of Ghana where respondents expressed their views primarily through interviews. Meanwhile, secondary data was collected from relevant articles and books to give more meaning to the opinions expressed. In sum, the research study revealed that the security of KIA is a joint force by major security agencies working together to keep the airport safe. Also, it was obvious that the KIA has evolved post 9/11. KIA threat being faced is the insider threat. Moreover, KIA has not experienced any form of terrorist attack. KIA implements the provision of GCAA and ICAO. Finally, KIA is making and continues to make giant strides towards achieving its main goal of becoming a Hub in West Africa. Nevertheless, the main challenge facing the attainment of this goal is the issue of insider threat, lack of screening technologies and poor monitoring of CCTV surveillance system.Item Religious Organisations’ Role In Conflict And Peacebuilding In West Africa: A Case Study Of The Catholic Church(University Of Ghana, 2022-08) Abossey, N.D.Wars, armed conflict, and instability continue to plague Africa, causing human misery and impeding progress across most of the continent. Consequently, preventing and eliminating violent conflict has become a top priority. This study therefore sought to examine religious organisations’ roles in conflict and peacebuilding in West Africa using the Catholic Church as a case study. The study employed a qualitative research approach of data collection and analysis. Ten key informants with at least ten years of experience working on religious, conflict resolution, and peace-building initiatives were purposively sampled. Interviews were conducted with the key informants where thematic analysis was performed for data triangulation and corroboration of qualitative findings. The study found that interfaith tensions suffocate peace throughout the West African Sub-Region as they serve as a conduit for ethnic disputes, mostly between Muslims and Christians. Also, the study found that the Catholic Church adopts a variety of approaches towards conflict resolution and peacebuilding through anticipatory and reconciliatory strategies, which include dialogue meetings, education, and advocacy in conjunction with civil society organisations, strategic meetings with eminent statesmen, mediation, reconciliation, the use of surveillance reports as a basis for dialogue, information dissemination via radio, and the use of Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to mediate disagreements. Furthermore, the study found that the effectiveness of religious organizations’ conflict management initiatives within the Catholic Church is the result of institutional structure, resource allocation, capacity investment, reputation gained over the years, and the mainstreaming of peacebuilding and conflict resolution approaches as part of its routine programmes.Item Cyber Risk Posture Of Ghanaian Telecommunication Companies: A Case Study Of Vodafone Ghana(University Of Ghana, 2021-07) Andrews, N.A.This study sought to explore the cyber risk posture of Ghanaian telecommunication companies using Vodafone Ghana as a case study. This study used Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) as a theoretical backbone and data were collected and analyzed qualitatively. Scholars define ERM as a holistic, systematic, and integrated approach to the management of the total risks that a company faces. It challenges the norm of siloed and department-specific risk management. The risk management structure and approach of the organization largely follow the tenets of ERM and outlined how cyber risks are identified, mitigated and monitored at different levels. The findings further indicated that telecommunication companies in Ghana experience unique cyber risks due to their capacity in storing and handling sensitive information in operations. Also there seems not to be cross-firm collaboration and experience sharing on the application of the ERM strategy. It seems organizations operate in isolation when it comes to the need of protection against cyber risks. In addition, although Ghana’s national cyber policy evolution and current state is adequate relative to regional and global standards, the enforcement and enactment of provisions is lax and lacking at best. Recommendations from this study are based on ways to enhance cyber security posture in the telecommunications industry and the country. These include collaboration between industry players, public sector collaboration, regional/international cooperation, and awareness campaigns to develop public culture on cyber security.Item Private Sector Engagement, a Catalyst for a Successful ECOWAS Integration and Development: The Case of Ghana(University Of Ghana, 2022-12) Agyemang, M.P.The success of every economic integration process rest heavily on the effective engagement of all major stakeholders; the government, the civil society and the private sector. The private sector is undoubtedly a key stakeholder in the economic integration process since the sector is broadly the main player of trade which is the core of any economic integration process. The ECOWAS has therefore enacted policies and implemented mechanisms that seek to enhance the participation of the private sector in the economic integration of West Africa. To ensure the efficiency of these policies and mechanisms, there is the need to regularly and carefully examine these efforts. Unfortunately, there is no or little focus on how the sector has been engaged in the integration process. This study, therefore, explored the private sector engagement approaches the ECOWAS has used in promoting private sector participation in the economic integration process of West Africa, by using Ghana as a case study. It assessed how the ECOWAS has engaged the private sector in Ghana by identifying and evaluating the approaches that have been adopted since the ECOWAS institutional reforms as well as investigating the implication such engagement arrangements have had on the economic integration process of the sub- region. The study used a qualitative research approach that enabled the researcher to explore the issues that the study sought to address. The study identified that the ECOWAS key tools of private sector engagement are; policies and mechanisms. The study found that the ECOWAS engages the private sector at the national level through state institutions designated to handle the matters of the ECOWAS. Also, it was realized that such engagements are limited to only business associations. This indicates that the vase number of private businesses that are not members of any business association are left out of the ECOWAS private sector engagement arrangements and states can easily compromise on the ECOWAS policies and directives. To enhance effective private sector engagement within the ECOWAS, the study recommended; the building of synergies between national programs and policies and the ECOWAS programs and policies; the intensive sensitization on the programs and protocols of the ECOWAS for the private sector particularly those at the grassroot; the breakdown of complex bureaucratic and lengthy processes of the ECOWAS; and the filling of the gap between the policies of the ECOWAS and the practices at the national level.Item Implementation Of SDG 6.2: An Analysis Of Ghana’s Efforts Towards Sustainable Management Of Sanitation(University Of Ghana, 2022-01) Bawa, M.A.Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.2 focuses on attaining access to equitable and adequate sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation by 2030. This particular study is aimed at examining the roles of individual citizens and the state in achieving SDG 6.2 Furthermore, the study is also purposed on assessing the effectiveness in policy implementation and the challenges that befog the implementation of SDG 6.2 in Ghana. In pursuit of these objectives, a qualitative research design was employed, where qualitative data was sourced via the use of interview guide from 15 respondents from key institutions and organisations whose activities relate to SDG 6.2. It emerged from the findings that, citizens role in achieving SDG 6.2 consists of proper disposal of waste, end open defecation, keeping the immediate environment clean and hygienic, etc., whereas that of state’s are to provide dustbin for the citizenry, enforcement of sanitation laws, monitoring and evaluation of SDG 6.2 progress, prioritizing sanitation, engaging the private sector, and coordinating with other agencies such as AMA, Ministry of Health, NCCE, EPA, etc., that will help speed up the SDG agenda. Also, measures put in place thus far in attaining SDG 6.2 in the near future are inadequate, as there is poor awareness of SDG 6.2 in the public domain, insufficient number of dustbins for households, poor coordination among relevant agencies that will help expedite activities, Findings from the study revealed that, the challenges that confront the implementation of SDG 6.2 in Ghana are delay in rubbish collection, poor coordination among government agencies, low private sector participation, and budget constraints. The study recommend that the government has to create awareness through education, partner with a lot of the private sectors, the officers should be constantly monitoring and evaluating their policies and the work on the ground. Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals, Sanitation, Waste ManagementItem United States – Mexico Bilateral Relations Under President Donald Trump.(University Of Ghana, 2021-12) Sackey, L.N.R.United States-Mexico bilateral relations can best be described as a ‘bromance’ – a love-hate relationship; their ‘rich’ history bears that out. Donald J. Trump during the early days of his presidency was a major threat to U.S.-Mexico bilateral relations. The threat posed by President Trump to U.S.-Mexico relations occurred along three main dimensions – his utterances/ rhetoric, foreign policy agenda, and personality. The economic benefit of US-Mexico relations appeared to be one-sided in favour of Mexico, prior to Trump becoming president, as reflected by the 100-billion-dollar trade deficit with Mexico. To top it all up, Mexico through its immigration policies was making the United States also feel unsafe at its southern border, by allowing migrant caravan to pour into the United States’ southern border. These coupled with other factors prompted Trump’s strong stance against Mexico. The study, thus, sought to examine U.S.-Mexico bilateral relations under President Donald Trump. The results of the study showed that prior to Trump becoming President, the status of U.S.-Mexico relations remained relatively stable. In the last two decades, domestic changes in the United States included but not limited to a (1) shift in the U.S.’ traditional view of immigration as an economic and cultural issue to now viewing illegal border crossings as a national security threat especially fueled by the crisis of 9/11. Although doom and gloom, triggered by domestic changes in both countries, were predicted for U.S.-Mexico relations under President Donald Trump; the bilateral relations between both countries seemed to have rather strengthened to the amazement of onlookers. 100 days post-Trump presidency was a total mess on the immigration and narcotics front, with the drug cartels being emboldened and making more money than they have ever made in a long while. There is, therefore, the need to re-evaluate policies to determine effective policies, so that ineffective ones can be discontinued, while maintaining effective ones regardless of which political party brought into force.Item Conflict And Higher Education In The Midst Of Political Instability: The Case Of The Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny In Cote D’ivoire.(University Of Ghana, 2022-01) Laari, E.This research focuses on the impact of conflict on higher education in Africa using the Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Cote D’Ivoire for analysis. There have been widespread of conflict with their devastating impacts on all facets of lives. Education is one sector which have suffered from prolong conflicts. For example, conflict had a detrimental effect on the academic calendar; Students have been of campuses for a long time; teaching and learning have stalled. Some students even abandon school to take part in the conflicts etc. Notwithstanding, there seems not to be much scholarly attention on the impact of conflicts on Higher Education. To contribute to the knowledge, the research study employed a qualitative methodological approach utilizing a personal interview technique. Using a purposive sample of eleven (11) participants made up of 6 teaching staffs, 4 student leaders and a Representative of the Association of African Universities (AAU). On the whole the study found out that both students and staff were deeply affected in many ways, psychologically and economically. Specifically, the study found out that, students were negatively affected as there was loss of skills and knowledge, loss of valuable learning, decline in enrolment, displacement of households and widening inequalities at the onset of the conflict. The findings show that higher education was largely affected in relation to the sources of funding which was not forthcoming despite the disproportionate low share that higher education receives from the annual education budget. The findings also reveal that infrastructure of the university was affected as some were badly damaged. Furthermore, the findings show that some students were found to be involved directly or indirectly in the activities of the rebel groups. It is therefore prudent therefore for all stakeholders to rise to protect higher education as its contribution to the building of society is very highly commendable. The study recommends the strict enforcement of the ECOWAS conflict prevention mechanisms so as to forestall future occurrence of civil wars among others.Item Assessing Frictions Within The Ecowas Free Trade Protocol. The Case Study Of The Nigerian Border Closure On Trade Relations With Ghana(University Of Ghana, 2022-01) Tamakloe, J.A.The research was aimed at assessing the frictions within the ECOWAS Free Trade Protocol, with a focus on the closure of the Nigerian boarder to trade relations with Ghana. A sample size of 10 Executives of GUTA and GEPA officials were interviewed. The research had three key objectives, and these were to identify the consequences of the border closure on Ghana’s trade sector, to examine the effects and implications of border closure on Ghana’s trading with Nigeria and to evaluate the lessons drawn from the closure of the border. For the first objective, the study findings indicated that, the Nigeria Border closure had had an adverse effect on ECOWAS Free Trade Policy. This study found out that again, the primary cause for the 28-days closure of Nigeria Border, was to stop the illegal importation of smuggled rice from Benin to Nigeria as well as the importation of other goods. The findings stated that, instead of the border closure to all, it could have been limited to a total ban of goods from Benin. The study’s second objective focused on the effects and implications of the border closure on Ghana’s trade sector. In assessing the effects and implications, findings pointed out that, there were several negative impact and implications for the Ghanaian trade sector. Some included low revenue, job loss and low trade flow. The third and final research objective of the study focused on the lessons learnt from the Nigeria border closure. The findings pointed out that, the Nigeria border closure had had a bad effect on ECOWAS free trade policy and Nigerians could have ban importation from Benin and dealt with only Benin instead of closing its border to all countries. It has also been learnt that Ghanaian traders must diversify its business market and not rely too much on Nigeria. Additionally, there is the need for regular consultation between Nigeria and Ghanaian authorities to ensure that, in the event of a future border closure, there would be another route for Ghanaian products to be allowed into the Nigeria market with proper labelling. Lastly, Nigeria must come out clear if they want to be part of the ETLS or not. The study therefore recommended that, ECOWAS states must respect all provisions in all protocols that they have signed unto at all times. The ECOWAS Commission should take advantage of this issue and embark on an intensive education for all its members on the provisions of the ELTS. Additionally, the ECOWAS commission should be bold enough to crack the whip in such instances to ensure that, this border closure that not repeat itself. Lastly, the ECOWAS Commission must initiate a dialogue which will end up in the signing of a trade treaty between Nigeria and Benin.Item Promoting Ghanaian Diaspora Participation In Homeland Development: A Case Study On The Year Of Return Program(University of Ghana, 2020-10) . Abu-Naim Bohigu, J.In 2018 the government of Ghana launched the “Year of Return” with the aim of attracting Ghanaian diaspora to come home in 2019 and to contribute to the development of the country. Since the end of its implementation, no empirical assessment has been conducted, making one wonder whether the programme has been effective in mobilizing the diaspora to improve on the level of development in Ghana. Hence, this study examined how the year of return programme has promoted the diasporas’ participation in homeland development. The study employed the qualitative research approach and gathered semistructured interview data from government institutions with oversight over the implementation of the ‘Year of Return’ initiative. The respondents were selected using the purposive sampling method based on their in-depth knowledge of diaspora policy issues and the ‘Year of Return’ programme. The study found that the ‘Year of Return’ programme has contributed diversely towards facilitating the socio-economic development of the Ghanaian economy by enhancing human capital development and economic activities in the country. However, the implementation of the programme was faced with multiple problems including inadequate planning and poor coordination, poor infrastructural development, and limited budgetary allocations. Besides, it revealed that the strategies being used to sustain the returns include the “Beyond the Return initiative”, establishment of ‘Sankofa account’ for diaspora contributions, and granting of citizenship status. The study recommended that there should be proper coordination between relevant government agencies, and future diaspora engagement programmes should be carefully planned with clear targets. Secondly, there should be a celebration of diaspora returns as annual festival, implement favourable tax policies and diaspora integration initiatives to promote more participation of the diaspora in the development of the Ghanaian economy. Finally, government should provide adequate financial support to the organizing agencies as well as commit more resources to ensure existence of basic social amenities necessary to attract more future returnsItem Promoting Ghanaian Diaspora Participation In Homeland Development: A Case Study On The Year Of Return Program(University of Ghana, 2020-10) Abu-Naim Bohigu, T.In 2018 The Government Of Ghana Launched The “Year Of Return” With The Aim Of Attracting Ghanaian Diaspora To Come Home In 2019 And To Contribute To The Development Of The Country. Since The End Of Its Implementation, No Empirical Assessment Has Been Conducted, Making One Wonder Whether The Programme Has Been Effective In Mobilizing The Diaspora To Improve On The Level Of Development In Ghana. Hence, This Study Examined How The Year Of Return Programme Has Promoted The Diasporas’ Participation In Homeland Development. The Study Employed The Qualitative Research Approach And Gathered Semistructured Interview Data From Government Institutions With Oversight Over The Implementation Of The ‘Year Of Return’ Initiative. The Respondents Were Selected Using The Purposive Sampling Method Based On Their In-Depth Knowledge Of Diaspora Policy Issues And The ‘Year Of Return’ Programme. The Study Found That The ‘Year Of Return’ Programme Has Contributed Diversely Towards Facilitating The Socio-Economic Development Of The Ghanaian Economy By Enhancing Human Capital Development And Economic Activities In The Country. However, The Implementation Of The Programme Was Faced With Multiple Problems Including Inadequate Planning And Poor Coordination, Poor Infrastructural Development, And Limited Budgetary Allocations. Besides, It Revealed That The Strategies Being Used To Sustain The Returns Include The “Beyond The Return Initiative”, Establishment Of ‘Sankofa Account’ For Diaspora Contributions, And Granting Of Citizenship Status. The Study Recommended That There Should Be Proper Coordination Between Relevant Government Agencies, And Future Diaspora Engagement Programmes Should Be Carefully Planned With Clear Targets. Secondly, There Should Be A Celebration Of Diaspora Returns As Annual Festival, Implement Favourable Tax Policies And Diaspora Integration Initiatives To Promote More Participation Of The Diaspora In The Development Of The Ghanaian Economy. Finally, Government Should Provide Adequate Financial Support To The Organizing Agencies As Well As Commit More Resources To Ensure Existence Of Basic Social Amenities Necessary To Attract More Future Returns.Item The Role Of Non-Governmental Organizations In The Attainment Of SDG Four(University of Ghana, 2021-11) Abagi, S.A.ABSTRACT This research assesses the role of Non-Governmental Organizations in the attainment of SDG four. In a country which is largely polarized politically, governments in power have over the years taken to capitalization of social interventions and developments to garner political credits for elections. The phenomena, among other things has led to a situation where other contributors of the nation’s developments are often not seen nor given the necessary regard to motivate their efforts in improving the development of the country. To this end, this research sort to look at Non-Governmental Organizations in the education sector of Ghana, and ascertain their contributions to the development of the sector in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4. The research aims at making a modest contribution in highlighting their roles and functions in society. Situated in the Pluralism theory of State Development, the research aimed at discovering what the contributions of NGOs are, in improving education in Ghana, what impact these NGOs have had in attaining SDG four in Ghana and whether or not, the perceived non-recognisition of their work has any impact on the discharge of their mandate. Using interviews as the main tool for data gathering, primary data was sourced from officers of Lead for Ghana, CAMFED, Ghana Education Service, Ministry of Education and the Northern Association of Non-Governmental Organizations in Education. Secondary sources of information included internet sources, journal articles, books, reports, and others. The study revealed that these NGOs are contributing significantly to increasing access to education and improving on the quality of education in the country. The study also revealed that aside from governments' initiatives to provide physical educational structures, there is a more significant challenge to improving quality of teachers to schools especially in rural Ghana. NGOs like Lead for Ghana have challenged the Status Quo in improving the caliber of teachers recruited to deprived communities in the country. The study also revealed that to attain the targets of SDG four, NGOs have an important role acting as checks and pressure groups for the Ministry of Education in the formulation of Education policies to attain the targets of SDG four in Ghana. In order to continue making contributions to the development of education in the country and attaining SDG four, the study recommends an implementation of a structure by government to appreciate the efforts of these NGOs.It is recommended that the Ministry of education put in place a system that allows for NGOs to detail their work structure and focus areas in order to avoid concertartion of NGOs in particular regions. Results from the study also reveals that, NGOs and their work in education is so crucial to the overall development of the nation hence, the need to strategicall harness the resources possesd by these NGOs to the benefit of the nation.Item Ghana’s National Border Security Strategy And Counter Terrorism(University Of Ghana, 2021-07) Haafiz, I.I.The main objective of this study is to analyse Ghana’s National Border Security and the prevention of Terrorism. Specifically, the study examines Ghana's exposition to terrorism threats, the efficacy of the National Border Security Strategy (NBSS) in Countering Terrorism and the challenges faced by state agencies in border management. The study employed qualitative methodology and relied on primary and secondary data for the analysis. The study focused specifically on the land borders of Ghana. The data was analysed using thematically based on the study’s objectives. The study revealed that the NBSS contributes significantly to the efforts in countering terrorism in Ghana. Therefore the study recommends easy accessibility to all agencies/personnel engaged in border security and protection. This can be achieved through the inclusion in the curricula of all national security services training schools and training courses. Additionally, the study found that security personnel face some challenges that directly affect their duties at countering terrorism. These include threats associated with the movement of animals across borders, overcrowding, attacks from citizens and nationals, smuggling of goods, human and drug trafficking, armed robbery. The study recommends personnel protection, constant engagement with leaders and citizens of border communities to facilitate countering terrorism at the borders and inland. Finally, the study recommends that the government of Ghana adequately funds the National Border Security Fusion Centre to ensure sustainability and the achievement of the goals of the NBSSItem The Influence Of Social Media On Diplomacy: A Case Study Of US-Russia Relations(University Of Ghana, 2022-08) Ampaabeng, G.E.Social media has now become a major part of modern diplomacy with countries all over the world embracing it as an alternative medium of communication within diplomacy. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, websites and blogs are examples of dominant social media platforms used by states and non-states alike. The use of social media in diplomacy has given rise to public diplomacy efforts, e-diplomacy or digital diplomacy and soft power and consequently transformed modern diplomacy. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of social media on the conduct and execution of modern diplomacy. The study measured the extent of social media's influence on diplomatic relations between the USA and Russia particularly and drew out some benefits and challenges as well as preferred solutions to the challenges. The research design of the study made use of the qualitative method in collecting, analyzing and interpreting data. The sampling method employed was the non-probability technique of purposive sampling because the selected sample had adequate information pertaining to the theme of the study. From the findings, social media has enhanced communication between diplomats and their target audiences while some shortcomings include security breaches and the propagation of fake news. Recommendations based on the findings include social media training courses for diplomats to enable them to stay on top of situations, improvement of security measures to protect information and data and measures to deal with propagators of false information.Item An Examination Of The Role Of Economic Diplomacy In Regional Integration: A Case Study Of Ghana-Ecowas Relations(University Of Ghana, 2022-08) Owusu, D.West African economic diplomacy is essentially development diplomacy aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its population. However, efforts to maximize the benefits of bilateral and multilateral economic diplomacy and regional integration for member nations' socioeconomic liberalization are hampered by several obstacles. As a result, the research is directed by the objectives of identifying the scope and practice of economic diplomacy, its impact, and the problems of regional economic integration within ECOWAS. This qualitative study was supported by the theoretical framework of New Functionalism Theory, which relied on ten key informants for theme analysis of data obtained by interview guide administration. According to the findings, Ghana's economic diplomacy is a tool for market integration and regional trade liberalization, which underpins commercial diplomacy management, trade diplomacy management, and financial diplomacy management. Also, the impacts of economic integration tools resulted in trade enhancement, fosters market development and growth, facilitates the creation of employment, transit goods and logistics service management, and revenue mobilization. The key challenges for the regional body are efforts stifled by a new conflict of scramble for its resources by the developed nations; failure to implement the Trade Liberalization Scheme; failure to meet the primary convergence criteria that will set the stage for the establishment of the common currency, ECO; and pockets of corruption and military coups that have destabilized peace, among others. The study advocated the establishment of institutional and legal provisions to support economic diplomacy and integration partnership agreement implementation, the promotion of more political-dedicated regimes in collective economic protocol implantation, and the consistent honoring of financial obligations, separate from the new scramble for regional integration prospects.Item Ghana’s Diplomacy In The 21st Century: Prospects And Challenges(University Of Ghana, 2022-02) Boataa-Kordie, E.The belief that Ghana’s diplomatic organisation offers far less value than it used to, is the result of people in diplomatic roles not being fully aware of the development that has taken place and currently happening. The study aimed to identify the changes, prospects and challenges in Ghana’s diplomacy in the 21st century. For the purposes of this analysis, a qualitative and deductive method were used. The study used both primary and secondary data. The study used purposive sampling method to select a sample size of 20 respondents. The information gathered for the study was transcribed verbatim and organized into appropriate themes and analyzed (Thematic Analysis). The study found that some changes in Ghana’s diplomacy in the current century include adequate integration of technology in diplomatic operations that has improved communication, transportation, service delivery and ultimately, the overall performance. The study found that some prospects of Ghana’s diplomacy in the 21st century are easy and fast communication, increased promotion and national image building, effective crisis management and conflict resolution, and dynamic roles of foreign mission. The study found that some challenges of diplomacy include difficulties in integrating IT tools into diplomacy, challenges in policy implementation, hacking and information breaches. Some recommendations are that the Government should invest in the right cybersecurity equipment and software to be able to prevent or control the attacks by hackers. Institutions and other stakeholders should use the new media social media to educate the citizenry to practice self-leaning about new technologies in Diplomacy.Item Implementation Of SDG 16.1: Analysis Of Ghana’s Efforts To Reduce Sexual Violence(University Of Ghana, 2022-10) Achempong, D.Sexual violence has been classified as a public health problem which happens in various forms and context such as rape, unwanted sexual advances, sexual abuse of vulnerable people, forced marriage or cohabitation, among others. Despite numerous existing instruments, sexual violence still persists, necessitating a more comprehensive guide in 2015 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Target 16.1 of the SDGs specifically seeks to reduce all forms of violence and its related deaths in the world. To achieve this target, some states have designed specific instruments and programmes aimed at reducing sexual violence by 2030, and these frameworks have been tailored into their national policies. To investigate the specific interventions being implemented by Ghana after the SDGs and the progress made so far, this study was conducted using qualitative research methodology. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with selected persons from key institutions such as DOVVSU, CHRAJ, UNFPA, UNICEF and Ark Foundation, as well as with victims of sexual violence. Findings show that before 2015, Ghana has been signatory to seventeen existing international instruments that prohibits sexual violence and has therefore translated some of these legal instruments into national policies and created institutions to spearhead their implementation. After the SDGs were adopted, more instruments and policies have been implemented in the short and medium term to further reduce sexual violence by 2030. The study reveals that recent legislations and commitments towards reducing sexual violence by 2030 are more pronounced than before as more resources have been committed towards this course especially by intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Despite the various efforts, the study identified that new initiatives and policies spearheaded by government are not as progressive as anticipated due to inadequate financial commitments. Meanwhile, initiatives and programs steered by IGOs and NGOs are progressive due to adequate resource allocations and financial commitments. The study concludes that commendable strides have been made from 2015 to 2021 towards reducing sexual violence in Ghana through existing institutions, policies and legal frameworks, but more could be achieved. The study therefore recommends that government should make adequate financial commitment towards gender-related issues, must cut unnecessary bureaucratic processes that impede contributions of development partners and should revise some existing instruments to meet current standards.