Barfuor Adjei-Barwuah Named First Distinguished Statesman in Residence

His Excellency Barfuor Adjei-Barwuah, formerly Ghana’s ambassador to the United States, is the university’s inaugural Distinguished Statesman in Residence.

“As a leader in project-based and purpose-driven global education, research, and outreach, WPI actively builds and sustains partnerships around the world,” says Winston “Wole” Soboyejo, senior vice president and provost. “To do that most successfully, we seek out dynamic and prominent leaders whose skills and passions align with ours and who can greatly enhance our efforts and our impact. Barfuor Adjei-Barwuah’s influence cannot be understated, and his invaluable insights, understanding of complex issues, and keen ability to build consensus through mentorship of students and faculty alike will greatly enhance WPI’s position as a leader and innovator in addressing global challenges.”

A native of Ghana, Adjei-Barwuah earned a PhD in geography from Indiana University Bloomington in 1972 and was a lecturer at the University of Ghana. He has served as an advisor to the United Kingdom’s Learning and Skills Development Agency as well as Ghana’s ambassador to Japan. In 2017 he was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo to serve as Ghana’s ambassador to the United States.

Adjei-Barwuah will engage with students and faculty through the Social Sciences and Policy Studies Department in the School of Arts & Sciences and will interact with the Institute of Science and Technology for Development (InSTeD) and the Provost’s Office. He will also partner with University Advancement to enhance and develop the Provost’s Global Initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ghana.