Participants at the Seventh Biennial Social Science Conference held at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), have emphasized the need for further research to analyze the impacts of Covid-19 on society.
The conference, organized by the Faculty of Social Science Education (FSSE) at UEW, focused on the theme “Bringing the Grown to Town; Governance, Society and Post-Pandemic Adjustments.”
In a communique issued at the end of the two-day conference, the participants highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between research and industry to ensure effective coordination of research ideas. They also called for continued funding from government, industry, and research bodies to expand the scope and scale of research at various levels.
Diverse institutions and countries were represented at the conference, with discussions covering topics of global relevance such as “performance expectancy and efforts expectancy.” The event saw active participation from intellectuals, lecturers, scholars, experts, and practitioners in social sciences, humanities, and related fields.
Prof Victor Antwi, Pro Vice-Chancellor of UEW, commended the organizers for hosting a successful conference and emphasized the university’s commitment to generating data-driven conversations through research and advocacy. Prof Peter Quartey, the Director of Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research at the University of Ghana – Legon, delivered a keynote address on “Ghana’s Economy and the Post Covid Adjustment.”
During his address, Prof Quartey highlighted the challenges faced by developing countries, including Ghana, before and during the pandemic. He pointed out the need for sustainable economic practices, such as creating a fund to service debts, broadening the tax base, and rationalizing government spending.
Prof Samuel Kobina Annim, the Government Statistician, stressed the importance of active participation in the data revolution to address current developmental challenges. He called for support and collaboration in building capacity in data and statistical literacy for transparency and accountability.
Another keynote speaker, Prof Samuel Kojo Kwofie, Head of Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Ghana, spoke about the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in understanding societal issues. He recommended the development of supportive policies, regulations, and infrastructure, as well as the provision of funding and training opportunities in AI for Ghanaians.
