The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya, Eastern Region has celebrated its first batch of graduates in a vibrant ceremony held at the Forecourt of the Multi-Purpose Auditorium. The event had the President of the Republic, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, as the Guest of Honour.
A total of 86 students graduated from the School of Sustainable Development(SSD) and the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences(SNES), with the ceremony moderated by the Registrar, Mrs. Mary Abena Agyepong.
Mr. Maxwell Boakye, a student from the Department of Environment of Public Health of SNES, emerged as the Best Graduating Student with a perfect grade point average (GPA) of 4.0. He distinguished himself by winning 10 out of the 23 awards sponsored by various individuals and institutions.
In his valedictory speech, Mr. Boakye expressed excitement about his achievements and those of his colleagues. He conveyed his gratitude to the Management and staff of the University for their guidance throughout their academic journey.
Miss Portia Teye Korleki, who studied Energy Sustainability of SSD, received the Female Best Graduating Student Award with an impressive GPA of 3.85.
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including the Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Adutwum; the Eastern Regional Minister; Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong: former Minister of Finance, Hon. Seth Terkper; members of the clergy; traditional rulers; representatives from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC); security forces; the Council Chairman, Prof. Jonathan Narh Ayertey; Council members; Convocation; as well as friends and families of the graduates.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, urged the graduates to uphold the values and lessons learned at UESD. He encouraged them to embrace leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainability, and to remain curious, seek knowledge, and act decisively in building a greener future.
Council Chairman Prof. Jonathan Narh Ayertey, who conferred the degrees on the graduates, congratulated them. He described the moment as a symbolic culmination of four years of dedication, perseverance, and growth, which was made possible through the unwavering support of the faculty and staff.
In his speech, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo emphasised the significance of the graduates’ achievements, urging them to view their degrees not just as certificates but as symbols of responsibility. He called on them to lead, inspire, and innovate, highlighting the University’s role in addressing environmental challenges. He encouraged the pioneer graduates to become torchbearers of bold ideas and innovative actions necessary for tackling pressing environmental issues.
Mr. Farouk Braimah a Sustainable Urban Development Activist was the Guest Speaker.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nyarko-Sampson, also inaugurated the UESD Alumni Association during the ceremony. Graduates took the Alumni Oath, administered by the Registrar, marking the beginning of their lifelong connection to the University.