Influential social media personality and award-winning blogger Pax Boniface has joined the growing advocacy calling for the official appointment of “Man Commissioners” in tertiary institutions across Ghana and beyond.
The call, inspired by social activist Kobby Kyei’s ongoing Boys Lives Matter Too campaign, seeks to address the often-overlooked mental health and social welfare challenges of male students.
Speaking through a powerful blog post titled “Boys Lives Matter Too: It’s Time to have Men’s Commissioner in Tertiary Institutions,” Pax Boniface highlighted the need for institutional representation of young men on campuses, calling it a “necessity, not a trend.”
“We have Women’s Commissioners and Gender Commissioners—rightfully so. But the male student community is crying in silence. Who’s listening to them?” Pax asked.
Mental health concerns, rising cases of academic pressure, depression, societal expectations, and the stigma around male vulnerability were listed among key reasons for creating the role.
Advocates argue that young men often suppress emotional distress due to cultural norms that discourage expression, leading to long-term psychological consequences.
“We’re not creating a rivalry here,” Pax clarified. “This is about balance. To build healthy societies, we need healed men—not just strong men.”
If instituted, the Man Commissioner would serve as a voice for male students emotional and social welfare. A liaison for mentorship programs focused on masculinity and mental health. A lead advocate for vulnerable male students navigating abuse, trauma, or identity issues.
The commissioner would work in collaboration with other student leaders to foster inclusivity and address male-specific challenges without marginalizing other groups.
This concern rightfully aligns with the vision of blogger and change-maker Kobby Kyei, who launched the Boys Lives Matter Too initiative earlier this year.
Kobby’s campaign aims to dismantle societal silence around male suffering and redefine narratives around masculinity in Africa.
The synergy between Kobby Kyei and Pax Boniface—two of the continent’s most impactful digital voices—has given new momentum to this campaign.
Boniface has urged student unions, tertiary institutions, policymakers, and the Ministry of Education to take concrete steps towards adopting this proposal.
“Let’s institutionalize healing and growth for our boys. Their lives matter too.”
