The School of Performing Arts (SPA) of the University of Ghana has been honoured with the Distinguished Award for Cultural Heritage and Theatre Arts at the 4th Edition of the Sustainable Development Excellence Awards (SDEA) 2026, organized by the African Youth for Sustainable Development (AYSD).
The coveted award, presented at the Awards Night held on Saturday, 29th August 2026, at the CLOGSAG Auditorium, Ministries, Accra, recognizes the School's outstanding contribution to the preservation, promotion, education, research, and advancement of Ghanaian and African cultural heritage, theatre, dance, music, and the performing arts.
Dedication to Visionary Leaders
Upon receiving the award on behalf of the School, Acting Dean Dr. Sylvanus Kwashie Kuwor dedicated the honour to two towering figures in Ghana's cultural and intellectual landscape: Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana's first President, and Prof. J. H. Kwabena Nketia of the Institute of African Studies, both of blessed memory.
"This award is a recognition not only of our institution's work today, but of the vision and legacy laid by these great leaders who understood the profound importance of preserving and advancing our cultural heritage," Dr. Kuwor remarked during the ceremony.
Recognition of Academic Excellence
The citation accompanying the award acknowledges the School's decades of dedication to academic and artistic development. It recognizes the pivotal role SPA has played in nurturing creative talent, preserving indigenous knowledge and cultural traditions, advancing performing arts education, and strengthening Ghana's cultural and creative identity.
The award further celebrates the School's continued commitment to artistic excellence, scholarship, innovation, and cultural preservation, demonstrating the vital role of the performing arts in education, national development, cultural diplomacy, social transformation, and sustainable development.
Institutional Impact
The School of Performing Arts remains steadfast in its mission to develop generations of performing arts professionals while serving as a guardian of Ghana's rich theatrical, musical, and cultural heritage. Through its programmes in theatre, dance, music, and allied disciplines, the School continues to contribute significantly to the nation's creative industries and cultural preservation efforts.
This prestigious recognition reinforces the School's position as a leading institution for cultural heritage and performing arts education in Africa, and serves as motivation for continued excellence and innovation in all academic and cultural endeavours.
About the Award
The Sustainable Development Excellence Awards (SDEA), now in its 4th edition, is organized by the African Youth for Sustainable Development to recognize outstanding contributions to sustainable development across various sectors and institutions. The Distinguished Award for Cultural Heritage and Theatre Arts specifically honours institutions and individuals demonstrating exceptional commitment to cultural preservation and the performing arts.
Story by: SPA Publicity Unit