Prof. Lucy Effeh Attom Calls for Holistic Action on Sustainable Development at 8th UEW Social Science Conference

Prof. Mrs. Lucy Effeh Attom, the Dean of Liberal and Social Studies Education at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has issued a call for a paradigm shift in how Ghana and the global community approach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Speaking at the Eighth Biennial Social Science Conference held in Winneba, Prof. Attom emphasized that achieving these global targets requires far more than just robust policy frameworks. She argued that the current global landscape, marked by intense political and economic polarization, necessitates a more holistic, equitable, and enduring approach to development that prioritizes collective action over individual or partisan interests.

The conference, themed "Bringing the gown to town, seeking sustainable development in a polarized world," served as a platform for academics, practitioners, and stakeholders to dissect the barriers to sustainability. Prof. Attom highlighted that political divisions and economic disparities are significant hurdles that hinder progress. She advocated for increased dialogue and shared responsibility as essential tools to bridge these gaps. According to the Dean, the complexity of modern societal challenges—ranging from environmental fragmentation to social inequality—cannot be solved in isolation. Instead, she urged for a culture of collaboration where diverse perspectives are embraced to create innovative, inclusive solutions for effective policy-making.

The gathering highlighted the role of higher education institutions in making academic research and expertise accessible and applicable to real-world societal issues. Prof. Attom noted that the urgency of the SDGs requires participants and policy-makers to rethink existing strategies and move toward building trust and fostering resilience within communities. By focusing on social science as a driver for change, the event underscored the necessity of moving beyond theoretical discussions toward practical, cooperative efforts that address the root causes of global instability and social fragmentation.

Ultimately, Prof. Attom’s address served as a call to action for all stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric toward tangible impact. She stressed that a just and sustainable future is only attainable if there is a genuine commitment to unity and equity in the face of a fragmented world. As the Eighth Biennial Social Science Conference concluded, the overarching message remained clear: the path to sustainability is paved with cooperation, and the burden of achieving the SDGs is a shared responsibility that transcends political and economic boundaries.