Black women in academia continue to navigate a complex landscape marked by invisible rules, shifting expectations and systemic inequities, speakers at the International Women’s Day Convention hosted by the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA), have said.

The event organised in collaboration with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) and the Department of Business Administration and the Women’s Executive Office of UTAG, brought together professors and scholars from various institutions who highlighted the experiences of black female academics.

They shed light on both the challenges they face and the strategies they employ to thrive.

 Speakers at the day’s event which was organised under the theme: ‘navigating the academic academy as black woman,’ were Prof.  Krish Marsh,  Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland, USA; Dr  Natalie Williams, Associate Professor of Speech Communication; Prof. Cadace  Moore, Professor of Clinical Psychology; and Prof. Helen  Arkorful, Former Dean of Evening School, UPSA.

One of the key issues raised was the existence of ‘unwritten rules’ within academic institutions.

According to Prof. Marsh, these informal expectations often differ from person to person and are rarely communicated clearly, leaving Black women at a disadvantage.

“There is no clear guideline, the expectations keep shifting it’s a moving target. What is acceptable today may not be acceptable tomorrow, and that uncertainty can be exhausting,” she explained.

At the event, Professor Marsh also highlighted how performance expectations are interpreted differently depending on race and gender.

She recounted being labelled ‘arrogant’ and ‘unapproachable’ for meeting publication targets, standards that were typically praised when achieved by their white male counterparts.

Prof. Moore noted that academia, historically structured without women and particularly Black women in mind, often imposes disproportionate scrutiny on their work and behaviour.

She said while women were frequently called upon to represent diversity and excellence, they are simultaneously overlooked for opportunities such as promotions, grants and recognition.

“You are asked to show up and showcase your achievements so the institution can celebrate diversity,” another participant said. “But when it comes to decision-making, funding or advancement, you are often overlooked.”

Prof. Moore underscored the importance of self-care and maintaining a sense of identity beyond academia.

“There is no award for being the most burnt-out woman; you have to protect your peace,” she added.

Prof. Akorful stressed the need to intentionally support and uplift other Black women, particularly students, by sharing knowledge and experiences.

“I make it a point to pass on everything I’ve learned; if I can prepare the next Black woman so she doesn’t have to struggle the way I did, then that’s part of my responsibility,” Prof. Arkorful said.

Prof. William stated that networking beyond one’s department was also critical, adding that building relationships across institutions and disciplines can open doors to opportunities and provide support systems when challenges arise.

She called a clear understanding of institutional policies, warning that informal practices are often misrepresented as official rules.

“Prof. Williams said it was important to know the written policies, stating that sometimes what people call ‘policy’ is simply tradition.

“When you understand the actual rules, you can challenge unfair practices.” she said.

By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu