Dr. Francis Kwabena Atta, a distinguished Ghanaian academic and Head of the Department of Politics and International Relations at Lancaster University Ghana, has been selected for the 2025 edition of the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Scholars programme—an elite academic initiative sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.
Dr. Atta is one of only two Ghanaian scholars chosen to participate in this year’s programme, joining 108 high-achieving academics from around the world.
His selection underscores both his scholarly excellence and growing influence in international academic and diplomatic circles.
Strengthening U.S.-Ghana academic ties
The SUSI programme is designed to strengthen international understanding of U.S. institutions, values, and policies.
Hosted this year at the University of Delaware, with administrative oversight by the University of Montana, the programme will offer participants a rigorous academic curriculum focused on American foreign policy—its formation, evolution, and global impact.
Dr. Atta and his peers will delve into the influential roles played by think tanks, media outlets, and multilateral institutions in shaping the direction of U.S. foreign affairs.
The academic component is complemented by study tours across multiple American cities, offering participants an immersive experience into U.S. political culture and global engagement strategies.
A global platform for knowledge sharing
In addition to his academic roles at Lancaster University Ghana and as Adjunct Faculty for the Masters in International Relations and Diplomacy (MIRD) programme at GIMPA, Dr. Atta is an active member of the International Relations and Diplomacy Network Ghana (IRDNGhana).
The platform connects diplomats, scholars, and professionals in global affairs, promoting informed dialogue and collaboration.
His selection for the SUSI programme reinforces his reputation as a thought leader in international relations and diplomacy, with a strong commitment to academic excellence and global policy discourse.
Advancing scholarly and diplomatic exchange
The SUSI programme serves as a bridge between the United States and leading scholars from around the world.
By fostering academic collaboration, it contributes to the creation of global networks capable of addressing complex international issues.
Dr. Atta’s inclusion in the 2025 cohort is not only a personal achievement but also a boost for Ghana’s growing presence in international academic and policy forums.
“This opportunity represents a significant milestone in my academic journey and a chance to strengthen collaborative ties between Ghana and the global diplomatic community,” Dr. Atta said in a statement.
As he prepares to join fellow scholars in the U.S., his participation promises to deepen cross-cultural understanding and promote shared knowledge between nations—affirming the enduring importance of global academic exchange.
