In a significant recognition of African expertise in holistic medicine and health policy, the Paris Graduate School has officially appointed Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu, a renowned African naturopath and legal scholar, as a Visiting Scholar and African Representative for Naturopathic Education.
The appointment, made by Dr. Souha Akiki Svahn, President and Founder of the Paris Graduate School, acknowledges Prof. Nyarkotey’s pioneering work in naturopathy, traditional medicine, and his exceptional contributions to healthcare regulation and education across the African continent.
“Your outstanding contributions to naturopathy, traditional medicine, and healthcare policy across Africa, along with your trailblazing distinction as the first naturopath to be called to the Bar in Africa (The Gambia), have distinguished you as a leader of global significance,” Dr. Svahn stated in the official letter of appointment.
Prof. Nyarkotey Obu, the first naturopath in Africa to also qualify as a lawyer, has been instrumental in bridging the gap between law and holistic health. His new role at Paris Graduate School will see him act as a key liaison between the institution and relevant stakeholders across Africa—including educational authorities, professional associations, and health institutions.
As African Representative, Prof. Nyarkotey will support the development of naturopathic education on the continent, promote academic collaborations, and help strengthen regulatory and professional standards. In his capacity as Visiting Scholar, he will contribute to curriculum development, research, guest lectures, and international scholarly exchanges aimed at advancing naturopathic medicine.
The appointment marks a milestone not only in Prof. Nyarkotey’s career but also in the global recognition of African leadership in integrative health. The Paris Graduate School expressed its confidence in his ability to drive forward impactful change and expressed great enthusiasm in welcoming him into its academic community.
“We are honored to welcome you to the Paris Graduate School community in this distinguished capacity and look forward to the many impactful contributions you will bring,” Dr. Svahn concluded.
This appointment adds to Prof. Nyarkotey’s growing list of international recognitions and further positions Africa as a rising hub for innovation in traditional and natural medicine education.
