A recent graduate of the Centre for Migration Studies (CMS) at the University of Ghana, Hamdiya Musah, has praised the Centre for providing her with the knowledge, research skills and critical perspectives needed to understand the complexities of migration and contribute to evidence-based solutions.
Hamdiya, who graduated with a Master of Arts (MA) in Migration Studies in 2026, described her experience at CMS as insightful, challenging and rewarding, noting that the programme broadened her understanding of migration beyond the movement of people to include its wider social, economic, political and developmental implications.
She said her interest in migration studies was driven by a desire to understand why people migrate and how migration affects individuals, families and societies.
“I have always been interested in understanding why people migrate and how migration affects individuals, families and societies. The programme offered me the opportunity to explore these issues from both academic and policy perspectives,” she said.
As part of her graduate research, Hamdiya examined “Study Abroad Influencers and the Migration Aspirations of Final Year Undergraduate Medical Students at the University of Ghana,” under the supervision of Prof. Lillian Akorfa Ohene.
Her study explored how social media personalities who share experiences about studying abroad influence the migration aspirations of young people, particularly final-year undergraduate medical students.
According to Hamdiya, the growing influence of social media on young people’s decisions motivated her to investigate how online content and study abroad narratives shape perceptions and aspirations around migration.
“The programme helped me appreciate the complexity of migration. It showed me that migration is influenced by social, economic, political and environmental factors and has significant implications for both origin and destination countries,” she said.
Reflecting on her academic journey at CMS, Hamdiya highlighted the research, analytical and critical thinking skills she gained, adding that the programme equipped her with the ability to assess migration policies and communicate research findings effectively.
She also acknowledged the support received from her supervisor and the wider academic community at CMS, noting that the guidance, feedback and supportive learning environment contributed significantly to her research journey.
“My supervisor provided valuable guidance and constructive feedback throughout the research process. The lecturers and academic community also created a supportive environment that encouraged learning and intellectual growth,” she said.
Hamdiya encouraged prospective students interested in migration studies to consider enrolling in the programme, describing it as a strong foundation for understanding contemporary migration issues.
“The programme provides a strong foundation for understanding contemporary migration issues and prepares students for careers in research, policy, development and international organisations,” she said.
Looking ahead, Hamdiya expressed her desire to apply the knowledge and skills acquired at CMS to contribute to migration research and policy development.
She said she hopes to support evidence-based decision-making and promote effective migration governance and sustainable development through research and professional engagement.
Hamdiya Musah was among the 2026 cohort of graduates from CMS whose research explored diverse migration themes, further strengthening the Centre’s contribution to migration scholarship and policy conversations in Ghana, Africa and globally
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