Champion Inclusivity to Ensure Progress – UG Graduates Advised

Accra: Graduates of the University of Ghana have been urged to champion inclusivity and offer equal opportunities to all persons, including persons with disabilities in their endeavors. As future business leaders, the graduates have been advised to build workplaces that embrace diversity and provide opportunities for all, leaving no one behind.According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Getrude Oforiwaa Fefoame, a Gender and Disability Rights Advocate, gave the advice on Wednesday at the graduation ceremony for the College of Education Distance Learning Programme, University of Ghana. The simultaneous congregation of all the schools saw a total of 15,750 students graduating, of which 123 were PhD students and 3,444 had master's degrees. The rest were 11,067 for undergraduate programmes, while 1,116 graduated with diploma certificates.'Inclusivity is the necessity for progress, innovation, and social transformation. You are the catalyst for change, equipped by the University to lead, serve, and inspire others,' M rs. Fefoame said. She urged them to approach their roles with humility and confidence and always uphold the values of integrity, inclusiveness, and innovation to be successful. 'Be ethical, be forward-thinking and be passionate about what you do.'Mrs. Fefoame encouraged the graduates to engage in continuous professional development, seek mentorship, participate in training programmes, and stay abreast of global best practices. 'You must cultivate agility, leadership, and strategic foresight to navigate the complex economic environment; never stop learning.' That, she emphasized, was important because the best professionals were those who were curious, innovative, and unafraid to explore new possibilities.'Your degrees will empower you to lead industries that are driving innovation, efficiency, and economic transformation. The path you have chosen requires adaptability, strategic thinking, and continuous learning,' she noted. She advised them to use their skills, influence, and leadership to create opportu nities for others.A speech read on behalf of Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, the Vice-Chancellor of University of Ghana, commended the graduates for the successful completion of their studies and charged them to uphold the values of the University. The University, she said, launched its new five-year strategic plan, running from 2024 to 2029. It has five strategic priorities: transformative student experience, impactful research, commitment to faculty and staff, engagement and partnerships, and sustainable resource utilization and stewardship.Mr. Victor Assah, the best graduating student, on behalf of the graduates, commended all who contributed to their educational journey. 'We carry a responsibility that education is not a personal milestone but a catalyst for transformation. We pledge to drive policies to impact lives,' he said.The UG concludes its congregations on Saturday, February 22.