He was born in Sambologo, Bongo District, on 15^th October 1938 and is married with eight children. Mr. Robert Akurugu Ajene is a Christian and fellowships with the Roman Catholic Church. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Ghana. He obtained a professional Diploma in Education from the University of Cape Coast.

As a Regional Director of Education, Upper Region, he opened the Zebilla Community Secondary School, then Bolgatanga Technical Institute and Wa Community Secondary School.

He also chaired the Association of Directors of Diploma Awarding Institutions to pioneer the founding of the University College of Education Winneba (UCEW) in 1992. He acted briefly as principal to the newly founded University before handing over in September 1992.