Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson

Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson serves as Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and Social Sciences, marking a distinguished career that began with his historic appointment as the first Ghanaian cardinal in 2003. After completing his doctorate in Sacred Scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome, he has held numerous influential positions including Archbishop of Cape Coast, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, and inaugural prefect of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development. His work uniquely combines religious leadership with environmental advocacy and social justice, particularly through his contributions to Pope Francis's encyclical "Laudato Si'" on environmental stewardship. As a prominent voice in both religious and scientific circles, he continues to advance dialogue between faith and science while serving on multiple Vatican dicasteries and undertaking peace missions to conflict regions. His leadership extends beyond traditional religious roles to address contemporary global challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, and social inequality, making him a pivotal figure in the Catholic Church's engagement with modern social and environmental issues.