Ashesi in its bid to get parents more engaged in the education of their wards this year held Parents’ Day; the first of its kind. Parents of freshmen were invited to an evening event of discussions and celebration. Some issues discussed included the honour code, Ashesi’s curriculum, alumni impact in Corporate Ghana and Ashesi’s future plans.
Dean Ashie, of the office of students and community affairs, welcomed the parents and applauded them for the brave decision of choosing an Ashesi education for their wards. Current students, Nana Ama Akosa’10, Babson semester abroad scholarship recipient and Afua Serwa Biney’11, class valedictorian shared experiences about their time here at Ashesi
Dean of Academic Affairs, professor Nana Araba Apt gave an overview of Ashesi's curriculum and the importance of the leadership component." We want giving back to societies to be second nature to our students. It's a fundamental principle of leadership."
Alumnus, Samuel Asumadu ‘07 who works with Fidelity Bank but is also the Country Director of the Astrient Foundation talked about why Ashesi’s one of the best experiences that could happen to anyone. He said “my time here at Ashesi shaped my view of the world. Everyday, I think of ways I can support the community I live in and it’s a beautiful place to be. Ashesi changed my life.”
Mr. Ayamgha, father of Anita’07 and Audrey’13 mentioned why he believes Ashesi is contributing to the greatness of Africa, “my daughter Anita has always set high standards for herself and Ashesi was no different. She always talks about Ashesi forcing her to think in ways she had never before and how confident she is of contributing significantly to Ghana’s economy. I’m proud of her and I know Audrey will do the same.”
President Awuah, before taking questions from parents talked about where Ashesi had been, where we are now and what the future holds for the university. He spoke about donor support, alumni impact and challenges currently facing the university.
He encouraged parents to support Ashesi as we train their wards to act on their honour even when no one is watching. “What we are trying to do here is to get our students to think and be excellent at all times. We want our students to care about the decisions they make because it will be an important quality to have when they become leaders.”
Members of staff and faculty joined in the discussion about Ashesi's support of students and the university's expectations of students. "Together, we are creating the Ashesi legend," President Awuah said.
Parents’ Day will be repeated for the parents of continuing students and will be an integral part of each year’s freshman orientation.