On Saturday, May 30, 2009, Ashesi University College graduated its fifth class, the Class of 2009. Fifty four members of the Class of 2009 were presented with degrees in Computer Science, Management Information Systems and Business Administration. Members of the Class of 2009 have participated in internships at many of Ghana’s top companies and have volunteered at over 15 non-profit organizations throughout their time at Ashesi. Even before graduation day already close to 70% of the class had received job offers.
The program opened with a dance performance by Ashesi students and the Noyam Dance Company. The dance, a combination of traditional African and modern dance styles introduced a festive mood to the celebrations. Prof. Nana Apt, Dean of Academic Affairs, followed with a reading, “Keep Dreaming” a poem written by Ashesi student Bolaji Buremoh’10.
2009 Class Speaker Patience Bediako lauded her classmates for their many achievements both in the classroom and the community. In an address to the graduates, Ashesi's President Patrick Awuah reminded the class of the importance of ethics and moral conduct in the lives of great leaders. He challenged the class to try to do the right thing, even when challenged by social pressure, in order to create positive change.
Guest speaker Ms. Joyce Aryee, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines spoke about looking at models of success from nature. She spoke about the intelligence, strength and persistence of ants, which has resulted in their successful spread across the globe.
Benjamin Codjoe, Monika Mould and Godson Quaye received awards for their commitment to upholding Ashesi’s values of scholarship, leadership and citizenship during their time at Ashesi. Monica-Maria Beecham and Rose Dodd received the “Torvinyo and IC Securities” Award for being the top students in Finance.