It is with profound sadness that the School of Performing Arts (SPA), announces the passing of Mr. Oh! Nii Kwei Sowah, a retired Senior Lecturer of the Department of Dance Studies.

Mr. Sowah passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Legon, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service, scholarship, mentorship, and commitment to the advancement of dance education in Ghana.

Mr. Sowah joined the School of Performing Arts in 1986 as a Research Assistant, beginning what would become over three decades of distinguished service to the University of Ghana. Through hard work, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to teaching and research, he rose through the ranks to become a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Dance Studies. Throughout his career, he made invaluable contributions to the teaching of dance, curriculum development, research, and the training of generations of students who continue to contribute to the creative arts industry both within Ghana and internationally.

Beyond the lecture room, Mr. Sowah was admired by colleagues, students, and alumni for his humility, generosity, wisdom, and passion for preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich dance traditions. His commitment to academic excellence and the nurturing of young talents earned him the respect and admiration of the University community.

After an illustrious career spanning more than thirty years, Mr. Sowah proceeded on voluntary retirement in February 2018, concluding a remarkable period of dedicated service to the School and the University. Although retired, his impact continued to be felt through the many lives he influenced and the enduring contributions he made to the discipline of Dance Studies.

The School of Performing Arts extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr. Sowah’s family, friends, former colleagues, students, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His passing is a great loss not only to the School but also to the wider performing arts community in Ghana.

The School joins the bereaved family in mourning his passing while celebrating a life devoted to scholarship, mentorship, cultural preservation, and service.

Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course. Members of the School community and the general public are kindly requested to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

May the soul of Mr. Oh! Nii Kwei Sowah rest in perfect peace.

By: SPA Publicity Unit.