ACCRA: Ghanaian scholars experience limitations in their academic freedom, particularly in critiquing government policies, despite a generally peaceful academic environment, revealed Dr Chika Mba, Principal Investigator at the Merian Institute of Advanced Studies in Africa (MIASA). According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Mba, speaking at the MIASA-MECAM Roundtable on "Academic Freedom and Research Ethics: Exploring Dynamics in Ghana, Tunisia and Germany," expressed that while the academic atmosphere in Ghana is conducive, true academic freedom remains elusive for scholars wishing to provide dissenting viewpoints on governmental agendas. He highlighted that the concept of academic freedom in Ghana is often conflated with institutional autonomy, yet the two are distinct. Dr Mba recounted historical challenges faced by academics in Ghana, noting periods of difficulty that date back to the era of Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah and extending through various governmental regimes, including the imposition of policies under late President Jerry John Rawlings. These policies often placed scholars in precarious positions when their views diverged from the official government line. Further insights were provided by Prof Emma Beitaief, Vice President of the University de Tunis and Principal Investigator at the Merian Centre for Advanced Studies in the Maghreb (MECAM). She shared that in Tunisia, academic freedom was severely restricted until the 2011 revolution, which ushered in a new era of democratization and enhanced academic liberties. The discussion also touched on the role of academics in societies under authoritarian regimes. Prof Rashid Quaissa, MECAM Director from Germany, emphasized the importance of academics using simple, accessible language to engage with the media and contribute to societal development, beyond just academic publications. In Ghana, the relevance of academic freedom is particularly poignant in light of ongoing environmental issues, as pointed out by Prof Joseph Awetori Yaro, Provost of the College of Humanities at the University of Ghana. He stressed the ethical responsibilities of academics in addressing pressing societal problems, such as the destructive impact of illegal mining, popularly known in Ghana as 'galamsey'. This roundtable underscores the critical importance of academic freedom in fostering a vibrant intellectual culture that not only challenges but also contributes constructively to societal and national transformation.