Somanya: The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya, Eastern Region, has held its first-ever matriculation ceremony for postgraduate students, welcoming 46 entrants into various programmes for the 2024/2025 academic year.
According to Ghana News Agency, the matriculants comprised 16 students pursuing a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Environmental Restoration Studies, 19 students enrolled in the Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Restoration Studies, and 11 students in the MPhil programme in Sustainable Aquaculture and Biotechnology.
In a ceremony in Somanya, Mrs. Mary Abena Agyepong, Registrar of the University, administered the matriculation oath while the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eric Nyarko-Sampson, formally admitted the students into their respective programmes. In his address, Professor Nyarko-Sampson emphasised the university's commitment to expanding its postgraduate programmes in line with its mission of promoting environmental sustainability. He urged the new students to be focused, disciplined, and diligent in their studies. 'Time management must be key, especially for those balancing academic work with professional and family responsibilities,' he said.
The Vice-Chancellor further encouraged students to uphold the University's core values - Honesty, Opportunity, Perseverance, and Enterprising (HOPE) - noting that these should serve as their guiding principles as they evolve into agents of environmental transformation. Reflecting on the institution's progress, he recalled that UESD opened in the 2020/2021 academic year with 78 pioneering undergraduate students, who graduated in November 2024. 'Today, we are proud to welcome our first cohort of postgraduate students,' he stated.
Also addressing the gathering, Mr. Ezekiel Teye Nartey Adjorlolo, Interim President of the Graduate Students' Association of Ghana (GRASAG) at UESD, described the occasion as a 'momentous milestone.' 'Matriculation is not just a ceremony; it lays the foundation for future generations to reflect upon with admiration and respect,' he said. Mr. Adjorlolo urged his peers to harness knowledge as a force for impact, to collaborate across differences, and help shape a renewed narrative for Ghana, Africa, and the broader global community.
Professor Alexander Nii Moi Pappoe, President of the Graduate Programme Management Committee, introduced the interim GRASAG executives to the University's leadership. They are President: Mr. Ezekiel Teye Nartey Adjorlolo; Vice President: Mr. Mawuli Kwaku Amediku; Secretary: Mr. Bernard Akowuah; Financial Secretary: Mr. Obed Asamoah Nartey; Organising Secretary: Mr. Nelson Kwaku Nanot; Women's Organiser: Ms. Jessica Amu. The UESD choir graced the event with musical performances.
