The University of Ghana (UG) has announced the immediate suspension of all student-led social gatherings following a resurgence of COVID-19 cases on campus.
This decision, communicated on Wednesday, June 25, is part of urgent health measures aimed at curbing the spread of the virus within the university community.
The University Health Directorate in a statement disclosed that both suspected and confirmed cases have been detected on campus, prompting the reactivation of COVID-19 safety protocols.
“All staff, students, and visitors are strongly advised to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to the recommended preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection and community spread,” the statement said.
Following this, the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs directed all student bodies, including the Students Representative Council (SRC), The Graduates Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG), Junior common Rooms (JCRs), and departmental associations to halt all social events and week celebrations until further notice.
“These measures have become necessary to safeguard the health and well-being of the University community,” said Professor Rosina I. Kyerematen, Dean of Student Affairs.
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University clarifies COVID restriction directive
Amid speculation that official university programmes had also been cancelled, the University’s Public Affairs Directorate issued a statement clarifying the earlier directive banning student-led social gatherings.
“Management wishes to clarify that the restriction on social gatherings pertains solely to student activities,” the notice stated. It further assured that “all scheduled official university events remain unaffected and will proceed as planned, with appropriate health and safety protocols in place.”
The statement confirmed that events such as the Inaugural Lecture on Thursday, June 26, and the 2025 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa (DSRA) scheduled for Friday, June 27, would go ahead. Members of the university community were urged to comply with COVID-19 protocols during their participation.
GHS confirms localized outbreak
Meanwhile, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) confirmed a localized outbreak of COVID-19 within the university community. In a press release dated June 26, 2025, the GHS said, “An uptick in COVID-19 cases has been observed, currently limited to the University of Ghana community,” noting that all current cases are mild with no hospitalizations.
The GHS reminded the public that while COVID-19 is no longer classified as a global public health emergency, the threat is not over.
“Sporadic outbreaks, which may follow seasonal patterns, are expected to occur globally,” the statement said, encouraging all to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive guidelines.
The GHS outlined six key safety protocols:
- Maintain social distancing
- Wear face masks, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas
- Wash hands with soap under running water or use hand sanitizer
- Stay at home and self-isolate when unwell
- Avoid large gatherings, and
- Seek medical attention if symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath develop.
Acting Director General of the GHS, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea assured the public that: “All necessary steps are being taken to prevent further spread and to control the outbreak effectively.”
Written by Samuel Nii Adjetey
