University of Ghana Suspends Travel to South Africa Over Rising Xenophobic Violence

The University of Ghana (UG) has announced an immediate suspension of all official travel by its staff and students to South Africa following a surge in xenophobic violence and growing security concerns in the country.

The directive, issued by the university's management, is aimed at safeguarding members of the university community amid reports of increasing attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.

According to the university, all official trips, academic exchanges, conferences, research visits, and other university-related travel to South Africa have been placed on hold until further notice. The institution stated that the decision will remain in effect while it closely monitors the evolving security situation.

For staff and students who are already in South Africa, the university has advised them to exercise extreme caution, avoid areas experiencing unrest, and remain vigilant at all times. They have also been urged to maintain regular communication with the university and stay in close contact with Ghana's diplomatic mission and other relevant authorities for updates and emergency assistance if required.

The university emphasized that the safety and well-being of its staff and students remain its highest priority and assured the university community that further guidance would be provided as the situation develops.

The decision comes amid renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically been targeted during outbreaks of violence linked to economic hardship, unemployment, and social tensions. Such incidents have previously affected citizens from several African countries, prompting travel advisories and diplomatic interventions.

The University of Ghana has encouraged all members of its community to comply fully with the directive and remain informed through official university communications until the travel restrictions are reviewed or lifted.