By Samuel Yaokumah
Akropong-Akuapem (E/R) Dec. 15, GNA – Akrofi-Christaller an institution of excellence with in-depth training in theology, mission and culture on Saturday, held its graduation ceremony at Christ Presbyterian Church in Akropong-Akuapem amid drumming and dancing.
The Ghana Dance Ensemble was in full attendance to add colour and creativity to the ceremony.
The institution is a research institution promoting African innovation and excellence as it combines theology, mission and culture.
These involves a thoughtful integration of faith principles, the purpose of proclaiming that faith, and the societal context in which it is expressed.
By thoughtfully merging these three elements, it creates a dynamic and enriching experience that not only communicates faith effectively but also honours the cultural diversity of the world around its activities.
In his welcoming address, the Rector of the institution, Rev. Prof. Philip Laryea, in his speech entrusted the institution into the hands of the Almighty God as he professed glory and honour onto the Lord for the successful graduation ceremony of the class of 2024.
He emphasized that the Lord had shown mercy on the institution inspite of the torrent and difficulties the socio-economic and political climate had negatively impacted on the operations of the institution.
He quoted Psalm 34:10 to show his gratitude “Young Lions suffer want and hunger, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing”, he stated.
He also said the institution had reduced its user fees to attract more students who could not afford the fees, stressing management had worked tirelessly to reduced MA, MTh, and PhD fees, leading to increase in enrollment.
He said the institution was also seriously aiming at the disparity between male and female students’ enrolment to prioritize gender equity.
He again pointed out that the institution kept attracting students all over the globe and that currently, statistics indicated that most of the institution’s students were from seven countries, including Ghana.
Others are from Europe and USA.
This he said reflected the institution’s strong global appeal.
Delivering his key-note address, His Lordship Justice Prof. Emmanuel Nii Ashie Kotey (Retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana, Chairman of Council, Presby. University, Ghana congratulated the graduands for sailing through their studies successfully.
He said they had not only earned a degree but advanced on the path towards success to life.
He emphasized that they had travelled from far, leaving homes, wives, spouses, children and gainful employment to acquire knowledge and excellence.
He explained that although the cross might have been heavier for some, they managed to carry it and urged them to be proud and to have the self-belief that their sacrifices had not been in vain.
He reminded them of the deep and in-depth knowledge and sound training they had acquired in theology.
He urged them to apply the knowledge in every sphere of endeavour.
“Learn not to box yourselves in and be content with what you have acquired, as there’s no end to education. When you have to adapt to situations, do so with integrity and wisdom from the Lord,” he added.
He challenged the graduands to be fully committed to the calling that had been placed on them and to hold tight to the gospel, driven by truth and love.
He reiterated the instruction of the mission by which they were being sent into the world to go and make disciples of all.
He encouraged them to carry with them the prayer support and love of the entire Akrofi Christaller Institution in confidence and faith.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Evans Oheneba Asare Narteh, who graduated with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (option), said the Institute had equipped them with the opportunity and tools to go into the world and interact with people through their culture.
He stressed that every group of people identified with a culture.
He said the training had equipped them to interact with all the elements of culture, including the people’s language, history, values, customs, norms, and traditions.
“It behoves us to use the tools and technical know-how to properly win souls,” he said.
He explained that other religious groups knew God and worshipped in accordance with their norms and beliefs.
GNA