Professor Ransford Gyampo, a renowned political scientist and now CEO of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, is not your typical government appointee.
In a wide-ranging interview with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, he laid bare his daily life balancing academic duties with public service responsibilities—emphasizing humility, transparency, and his continued passion for teaching.
Here’s a breakdown of his key insights:
Criticism of government is academic, not partisan
Professor Gyampo clarified that his past criticisms of former President Mahama’s administration were based on scholarly scrutiny, not party loyalty.
“I was doing my work as a political scientist using the cannons of the political science discipline… It had nothing to do with party.”
I still teach — and for free
Despite his role as a CEO, Gyampo maintains a deep commitment to teaching.
“Even though I’m an appointee, I still find time to go and teach… and I teach for free.”
Theory vs practice: The balance is essential
He believes theory should guide real-world action, even if practice doesn’t always align perfectly with theory.
“Theory is what is expected to be. When you go to the field, you are supposed to bring theory to shape what is bad.”
I fly economy — even though my contract allows business class
As a cost-saving measure, Gyampo rejected business class travel to avoid burdening the institution.
“Even though it is expected that I fly business class, I think the practical reality is that they don’t have enough resources.”
I use my own car and pay for my own fuel
To reinforce his commitment to public service, he avoids using government vehicles for personal errands.
“If I’m going to church or a funeral, I use my personal car and buy my own fuel.”
I still live on campus and pay rent
Gyampo rejected government accommodation and chose to remain on University of Ghana campus at his own cost.
“I live on campus and I pay commercial rate for my accommodation.”
Port reforms are underway
He’s overseeing major reforms at the Shippers Authority to address stakeholder concerns.
“Our new Act says we must approve or disapprove port charges—not just negotiate.”
Shipping lines will justify their charges
The Authority is demanding transparency from shipping lines, shifting from negotiation to regulation.
“We’ve written to them asking for justification. If they don’t justify it, we’ll disapprove.”
GAPOHA’s surprise charge blocked
He halted an unapproved charge attempt by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.
“Once we got to know, we quickly intervened. The Director General has been cooperative.”
This honest and detailed interview highlights a rare blend of academic rigor, public service, and personal ethics in leadership—one Gyampo says he hopes will set a new tone in Ghanaian public life.
