GRASAG-UG Hosts Okyenhene for Empowerment and Leadership Lecture
His Royal Majesty Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, Okyenhene of Akyem Abuakwa, has called for transformational leadership and a systemic change to drive Ghana's progress.
Delivering the keynote lecture at the Empowerment and Leadership Lecture organised by the Graduate Students Association (GRASAG) University of Ghana Chapter, on the theme, "Transformational Leadership in a Contemporary World", he emphasised the country's immense potential but argued that the current political system has hindered true economic growth since independence. "We cannot remain stagnant - we must change to progress," he stated.
The Okyenhene described the governing framework of Ghana's independence-era as outdated and dysfunctional, stressing, "Fifty-seven years later, our system remains stuck in the past. This must change."
He proposed decentralising government ministries to bring opportunities directly to rural areas. "For too long, ministries have been concentrated in Accra, disconnected from the needs of citizens elsewhere. We must spread resources and jobs across regions," he argued. This, he said, would boost transparency, private sector activity and quality of life in underserved communities.
Turning his focus on Ghana's talented youth, the Okyenhene noted that their skills and ideas could enrich the nation for generations if given the right opportunities. However, he warned that young Ghanaians might lack the tools to compete globally without educational investment.
"Science and technology are rapidly changing our world, yet our education system has not kept pace," he observed, advocating for substantial funding for science and technology education from primary through university levels.
Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin also called for improved teaching conditions and salaries. "Teachers do not just need classrooms and textbooks - they need respect. We must restore the dignity of their profession to attract the best minds," he said.
Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of growing Ghana's private sector as the "only way" to create jobs and wealth, thereby ending the nation's dependence on borrowing.
“We need the government to create a more conducive environment and system to support the private sector and make credit and capital available,” he lamented.
In her remarks as Chairperson, Prof. Rosina Kyerematen, Dean of Student Affairs, UG, highlighted the University's commitment to environmental conservation and leadership. She echoed the importance of preserving ecosystems to maintain biodiversity.
“His Majesty is a champion of the environment, and you can see on our campus that we are dedicated to environmental conservation.” she stated.
Praising His Royal Majesty's efforts to conserve the unique Atiwa Forest ecosystem, Prof. Kyerematen noted, “If you see a traditional ruler so passionate about conserving nature, you realise how exceptional Atiwa is. It is one of a kind in the world, with only two or three such high-range forests globally. There are trees, frogs and butterflies found only in Atiwa. His drive and passion for conserving the Atiwa forest are truly remarkable”.
In earlier remarks, Mr. Claudius B. Angsongna, GRASAG President, delivered a welcome address in which he outlined several challenges faced by graduate students and called for increased support.
“We face numerous challenges as an association and as graduate students. Inadequate accommodation remains a significant issue, with nearly 14,000 graduate students and fewer than 1,000 beds on campus. We have started contributing towards building our own hostel, and I call on all agencies and benevolent groups to help us reduce these challenges,” he said.
Mr. Angsongna also highlighted that many graduate students have not been able to complete their research due to limited funding and called for more support to provide research funds.
He expressed GRASAG's support for the Vice-Chancellor's ‘One Student, One Laptop’ Initiative (1S1L) to provide laptops for students in need. He further called for partnerships that support the academic success of graduate students to enable them excel in their various academic endeavours.
In a passionate closing address, Prof. Kyerematen summarised the key messages from His Royal Majesty's landmark lecture, stressing his challenge to Ghana's youth to take ownership of their future and help shape the country they want to see.
She reiterated the fact that corruption is a major obstacle to realising Ghana's full potential, calling for integrity from leaders, and acknowledging that citizens must also address corrupt practices in their daily lives.
The inspiring event featured solidarity messages, appellations and dance performances by Abibigromma and the Ghana Dance Ensemble, as well as a documentary on His Royal Majesty and presentations from GRASAG.
Also in attendance were members of the Okyenhene’s entourage, Registrar Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah, staff and members of the University, graduate students as well as some current and former members of parliament.