On June 4, our seventh class graduated from Ashesi University College. Eighty-one students were awarded degrees in Computer Science, Management Information Systems and Business Administration.
Speakers included Senior Class Speaker, Jason Nicco-Annan, President Patrick Awuah and Distinguished Guest Speaker, Ms. Hazel Barrard-Amuah, the Regional Head of the Center of Expertise - Learning/Training and Management Development at Nestle Central & West Africa.
Following the opening reading by Ms. Adzo Ashie, Jason Nicco-Annan delivered a speech highlighting some defining moments of his class's time at Ashesi. Some of the noted achievements included the Ashesi Community Sponsored Walk, which generated over $5,000 for the Student Endowment Fund, the development of relevant student societies such as SIFE, Rotaract and Golden Z, and the participation of many of his classmates in rewarding internship programmes, seminars and conferences. Read the senior class speaker's speech.
President Awuah, in his address to the graduating class, quoted Chinese leader, Deng Xiaoping, who once said, “To cross a river, feel for the stones.” Reflecting on this quote, President Awuah advised the graduates “to remain open to possibilities, to maintain focus, and to help others. As you cross the rivers of your life journey,” he continued “it is important that you take the time to give others a helping hand. It makes for a less lonely journey, and it steadies the heart.” He wrapped up his speech by urging the class of 2011 “to find a path that feeds your soul,” asking them to remember the lessons they have learned at Ashesi, as well as their responsibility to all humanity. Read the president's speech.
Following President Awuah’s speech, distinguished guest speaker, Ms. Hazel Barrard-Amuah, advised the class of 2011 to make the most of the rigorous training they had received at Ashesi. She remarked that “the Ashesi values of scholarship, leadership and citizenship, are the right foundation to become significant in corporate Ghana. Believe me, they are a great foundation on which to build your credibility at work and in society. You will find yourself in ethical dilemmas almost on a daily basis. This is an integral part of corporate life. Stand firm and do not compromise your values and standards.” Read the guest speaker's speech.
The Class of 2011 will always be remembered as the first class to officially adopt the Honour System for examinations, committing to integrity and ethical behavior. As Senior Class Speaker, Jason Nicco-Annan eloquently stated, “As early adopters of the honour system, we have faced doubts and challenges. But as we leave the school, we hope to solidify our commitment to honour, and to extend our values to public consciousness.”
Congratulations Class of 2011! We look forward to your success in the years to come.