By J.K Nabary
Winneba (C/R), April 29, GNA-Neenyi Ghartey VII, Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has appealed to the people of Bawku and its surrounding communities to let peace reign.
“Let the guns go silent and peace speak louder in Bawku,” he pleaded.
Neenyi Ghartey who is also the Paramount Chief of Effutu Traditional Area, made the appeal in an address he delivered at the Second Session of the 29th Congregation at the Winneba campus of the University, where a total of 6,769 students comprising postgraduate, undergraduate and diplomas who pursued their studies through the university’s Distance Education programme were conferred with degrees, diplomas and certificates.
Neenyi Ghartey stated that while celebrating the achievements of the graduands, the pain and uncertainties faced by many persons living in that part of the country must not be forgotten.
He underscored the need for them to silence the guns and raise the voices of reason, unity, and brotherhood, saying it was time everyone remembered that conflict only brought sufferings, losses, shame, and destruction to lives, property and the future dreams of the young ones.
According to him Bawku is a land rich in culture, strength, and resilience where its people have long been known for their industrious spirits.
“But today, that spirit is being tested, families are being torn apart, children cannot go to school and livelihoods are crumbling under the weight of persistent violence, but we cannot educate a nation while part of it burns”.
“We cannot, and must not, allow this to continue,” Neenyi Ghartey stresses and urged the youth who are the future workforce of the country not to allow themselves to be used as tools for destruction, but rise as agents of peace and development.
He said, urgency of the issue demanded intensified diplomatic efforts and security, to bring lasting peace to Bawku.
He stated academics, policymakers, graduates, and parents should all advocate for peace wherever they found themselves, adding that seeking peace was not a weakness but strength, dignity, and vision upon which a prosperous Ghana could be built.
He said, every Ghanaian child deserved to grow up in peace, whether in Accra or Bawku, in Winneba or Navrongo, in Elubo or Sunyani.
Advising the Graduands, the Chancellor, urged them to remember that their success was not measured by what they have achieved but by the impact they would make in their communities and immediate environment.
“Your education has equipped you to be change agents, let your work ethic and output reflect these values and ensure that honesty, respect and responsibility guide your actions.”
He further charged them to redefine their purpose by aligning it with their strengths and passion and strive to make a difference in their career pursuits.
They should also build stronger relationships through collaborations with colleagues, lecturers, and mentors with mutual respect as they surround themselves with people who challenge, inspire, and support through thick and thin.
“As graduate of UEW, your responsibility is not only to yourself but also your community, the nation and world at large, you must be innovative in your thinking, ethical in your actions and compassionate in all your endeavours, Neenyi Ghartey, added.
GNA
AT/KOA