Gyakie Engages University of Ghana Students in African Literature Class

Award-winning Ghanaian singer and songwriter, Jackline Acheampong, known professionally as Gyakie, recently joined students of the University of Ghana, Legon, as a guest lecturer during a session of ENGL 314: Introduction to African Literature.

The session was facilitated by Dr. Kwabena Opoku-Agyemang, Senior Lecturer in the Department of English and son of Ghana’s current Vice-President, H.E. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.

As part of the interactive class, Gyakie engaged students in a conversation around the intersections of African literature, contemporary music, and cultural storytelling. She spoke passionately about how her songwriting is influenced by African identity, heritage, and the oral traditions that have long shaped the continent’s narratives.

“Music is literature in rhythm and feeling,” Gyakie shared. “My work reflects not just my personal story, but the stories of the continent and the voices that came before me.”

Dr. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the importance of making literature relatable to students by bridging academic theory with real-world creative voices. “Gyakie’s visit highlights the evolving space of African literature where music, performance, and culture blend seamlessly with the written word,” he noted.

The session left students inspired, reinforcing the importance of diverse mediums in preserving and sharing Africa’s literary legacy.