By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), March 29 – The Evangelical Presbyterian University College (EPUC), Ho, has held its 16th graduation ceremony, honouring 265 students who successfully completed their academic programmes.
Graduates were urged to distinguish themselves on the job market through integrity, hard work, and a positive attitude.
The ceremony saw the graduation of 16 certificate students, 12 diploma students, 222 bachelor’s degree students, and the institution’s first-ever cohort of 15 master’s degree students.
Professor Elvis Ofori Ameyaw, Dean of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), delivered an address on behalf of the UCC Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong.
He encouraged graduates to see their education as a foundation for lifelong growth and urged them to use their skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to society.
“Whatever field you find yourself in, whether as scientists, entrepreneurs, or leaders, strive to make a difference,” he said, emphasising that success is not only measured by titles or financial gains but also by the positive impact one makes on others.
He encouraged the graduates to uphold core values such as kindness, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, stating that these principles would set them apart in their careers.
Prof. Tsatsu Adogla-Bessa, Acting President of EPUC, expressed pride in the continuous growth of the university and the rising student population each academic year.
He attributed this to the influence of alumni who serve as mentors and role models for potential students.
To accommodate the increasing enrollment, he announced a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreement between the Centre for Community Development, Globedam Ltd, and the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG), for the construction of a 3,000-bed hostel and lecture hall facilities at the university’s permanent site in Wumenu.
“This marks a significant milestone in the development of our university’s infrastructure,” he noted.
Prof. Adogla-Bessa also highlighted financial challenges facing the institution and made a passionate appeal to stakeholders, donors, and funding organizations to support EPUC in sustaining its academic and infrastructural growth.
“As we strive to overcome these obstacles, I invite individuals, corporate entities, and philanthropic organisations to partner with us in securing a sustainable future for the university,” he urged.
He also called on the leadership and members of EPCG to continue their support and commitment in ensuring that EPUC thrives despite financial difficulties.
The Acting President reminded graduates that their degrees come with responsibilities. He encouraged them to uphold the university’s core values: trust, honesty, justice, hard work, discipline, and togetherness.
“Let these values guide you in both your professional and personal lives. The world needs ethical, innovative, and compassionate leaders, and I am confident that you will rise to the occasion,” he stated.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr James Gunu, who served as the Guest Speaker, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating job opportunities through the 24-hour economy policy.
He emphasised that President John Dramani Mahama was determined to ensure the successful implementation of the policy, which aims to boost employment, especially for the youth.
“Today marks a new beginning for Ghana as we reset the nation. As part of this process, we must also reset our academic institutions to align with excellence and national development,” he said.
He congratulated the graduates and wished them success in their future endeavors.
The leadership of the graduating class, represented by Mr Eric Adzie for undergraduate students and Mr Bright Ege for postgraduate students, extended heartfelt appreciation on behalf of their colleagues to the management of the university, faculty members, lecturers, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG), their families and loved ones for their unwavering support throughout their academic journey.
They acknowledged the dedication of their lecturers and faculty members, whose guidance and mentorship had shaped them into well-prepared individuals ready to make a difference in the world.
They also expressed gratitude to the EPCG leadership for their commitment to sustaining the institution and ensuring its continuous growth.
“Our journey has been challenging yet fulfilling. We are grateful to our lecturers for their patience and dedication, to our parents for their sacrifices, and to the university for providing us with a solid foundation for the future,” Mr Adzie remarked.
The graduation ceremony was graced by a distinguished gathering, including Leadership of EPCG, Management of the University College, Lecturers and faculty members, Representatives from mentor universities (UCC and UEW), Traditional leaders, Parents, guardians, and loved ones.
Their presence reflected the importance of the occasion and the collective effort in nurturing the next generation of professionals and leaders.
GNA
MA/LAA