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Tag: Graduation

  • 63 Nsawam prison inmates earn UCC degrees under PITEP initiative

    63 Nsawam prison inmates earn UCC degrees under PITEP initiative

    A total of 63 inmates from the Nsawam Medium Security Prison have successfully completed tertiary education programs and graduated from the University of Cape Coast (UCC).

    Their studies were undertaken through the Prison Inmates Tertiary Education Programme (PITEP).

    The graduates obtained degrees in various fields, including a Bachelor of Commerce with options in Accounting and Management, as well as a Bachelor of Education in Junior High School Education. Their certificates were awarded through UCC’s College of Distance Education (CoDE).

    The graduation ceremony, held within the prison facility, was part of UCC’s 57th congregation but marked the first cohort to graduate under PITEP.

    PITEP, an initiative led by the non-governmental organization Plan Volta Foundation, offers free tertiary education to incarcerated individuals, allowing them to earn university degrees while serving their sentences.

    Implemented in collaboration with the Ghana Prisons Service, the initiative is designed to rehabilitate inmates by equipping them with academic and professional competencies, improving their prospects for reintegration into society upon release.

    Matthew Milluzieh, who emerged as the best student in this year’s graduating class, reflected on how education has transformed his life and that of his colleagues.

    “We did not enter prison as students, but as individuals in need of reformation. Today, we leave this chapter not only as degree holders but as individuals with renewed ambition, ready to defy the stigma that being an inmate defines one’s future,” he stated.

    Milluzieh has been serving a 20-year sentence since 2018. In recognition of outstanding academic performance, two other inmates were awarded special scholarships to further their education.

    The event also honored key stakeholders who have played a crucial role in the program’s success. Plaques and citations were presented to individuals and organizations that have continuously supported the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates.

    Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, praised the graduates for their resilience, emphasizing that their achievement underscores the power of determination and personal growth.

    “This milestone should not be seen as the end of your journey. You are now change-makers, leaders, and role models who can inspire others to pursue self-improvement and academic success,” he said.

    Mr. Terlabi commended the Ghana Prisons Service for its innovative approach to rehabilitation, highlighting the role of education in transforming lives and enabling inmates to contribute meaningfully to society.

    “The government remains dedicated to the rehabilitation of inmates, recognizing it as a crucial aspect of our justice system. We are ready to collaborate with all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, to sustain this initiative,” he added.

  • GHS500 graduation fee doesn’t cover medallions, scrolls only – UG clarifies

    GHS500 graduation fee doesn’t cover medallions, scrolls only – UG clarifies

    The University of Ghana has responded to recent claims regarding its graduation fees, stating that the reports suggesting over GH₵11 million was collected without providing medallions or scroll holders are inaccurate.

    These claims have been strongly denied by the institution, it has clarified in a statement released on February 17, 2025, that the GH₵500 fee paid by each of the 15,776 graduates covers several services, including gown rentals, a congregation publication, a university-branded souvenir, and administrative costs.

    The total revenue expected from these fees, assuming full payment, amounts to GH₵7,888,000—much lower than the widely reported GH₵11 million.

    While acknowledging that medallions and scroll holders were not available during the ceremony due to delays in procurement, the university emphasized that it had already communicated the situation to graduates via an official notice on February 10, 2025.

    This notice assured students that the items would be delivered at a later date.

  • Video: Father throws lavish graduation party for 19-year-old daughter at Trassaco

    Video: Father throws lavish graduation party for 19-year-old daughter at Trassaco

    In a dazzling display of celebration, a recent 19-year-old graduate of Tema International School, Jaia Senyo, was treated to an extravagant party at the prestigious Country Club in Trassaco, East Legon.

    The event, organized by her father, was a testament to his pride in her academic achievements and marked a memorable milestone in Jaia’s journey.

    The festivities unfolded in grand style as guests were greeted with opulent decorations and a lively atmosphere befitting the occasion.

    The graduate, adorned in an elegant dress, radiated joy and gratitude amidst the gathering of family and friends who had gathered to commemorate her success.

    Watch video below:

  • 17-year-old teen bags doctoral degree after defending dissertation successfully

    17-year-old teen bags doctoral degree after defending dissertation successfully

    A Chicago teenager participated in her graduation ceremony this month, having achieved her doctoral degree at the age of 17.

    Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II embarked on her academic journey at the age of 10 as a freshman at the College of Lake County, where she majored in Psychology. By 2020, she had obtained her Master of Science degree from Unity College.

    At the age of 15 in 2021, Tillman was accepted into the Doctor of Behavioral Health Management Program at Arizona State University.

    Reflecting on her achievements with “Good Morning America,” Tillman attributed her deep appreciation for education in part to her family’s background.

    “People in my life like my grandmother, who was part of the Civil Rights Movement, she of course harped on the importance of education and consistently learning something always,” Tillman said.

    “But the way I always held education so high on my own, aside from being raised that way was finding different things to be educated about it doesn’t just have to be all of the subjects that they teach you in school there’s so many things in the world to learn about that we wish we knew about,” she said. “I feel like that urge to learn something new just never didn’t exist for me.”

    Tillman said, growing up, she had always felt drawn towards psychology and related fields.

    “They’ve always made me so curious,” she said. “And so grinding away, I could continue to study in that area. With even more that was attached to it. It was just really intriguing to me.”

    In December 2023, at the age of 17, Tillman successfully defended her dissertation, earning a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from ASU’s College of Health Solutions. On May 6, she participated in ASU’s commencement ceremonies.

    Before the big day, Tillman expressed her excitement to “GMA,” feeling just as thrilled as any other student.

    “I love having a reason to celebrate and throw a big soirée,” she said. “Just that walk, and especially with people I haven’t been there, seeing every day, since my program is online, it’s just gonna feel really fulfilling to finish.”

    Dr. Leslie Manson, a clinical associate professor at ASU, told “GMA” that Tillman is the youngest person in school history to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health.

    “It’s a wonderful celebration, and we hope … that Dorothy Jean inspires more students,” Manson said, adding of Tillman, “But this is still something so rare and unique.”

    Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II officially walked at her graduation ceremony in May.

    Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II officially walked at her graduation ceremony in May.

    Throughout Tillman’s time at ASU, Mason said she saw her growth in gaining the skills of professional writing as well as leadership, noting that Tillman is “inquisitive” and “intelligent.”

    “She has innovative ideas and motivation, which is wonderful,” Mason explained. “And truly, I think what is inspiring is that she embodies that meaning of being a true leader.”

    Mason added that “other students can really learn the piece of dedication” from Tillman.
    “So that motivating energy, those are the pieces that I think other folks can really turn to and feel inspired about,” she said. “That curiosity is always there. And I think all learners come with that. But it’s great to be able to see it in someone so young as well.”

    Her inspiration and how she gives back to the community

    Tillman’s journey to success wouldn’t be made possible without the support from her mom whom she said is one of her biggest motivators.

    Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II was only 10 when she became a freshman at the college of Lake County

    Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II was only 10 when she became a freshman at the College of Lake County, majoring in Psychology.

    “Seeing my mother consistently worked so hard to continuously uphold our family’s legacy, and be that person that everyone was able to go to if they needed anything… Always seeing [her] like [a] ‘Wonder Woman’ definitely made me want to grow up [into] an accomplished person,” she said.

    A proponent of education, Tillman serves as the founder and CEO of the Dorothyjeanius STEAM Leadership Institute. Through this institute, she organizes programs such as summer camps aimed at assisting children in achieving a balance between arts and STEM subjects.

    “I feel like adding art and putting a focus on it throughout science, technology, engineering, and math, makes the kids excited to learn all those things,” she said. “And it opens them up to all of the possibilities and all the knowledge provided in that area of just STEM.”

  • Father and son graduate from University of Ghana with master’s degrees in law

    Father and son graduate from University of Ghana with master’s degrees in law

    On January 26th, 2024, a heartwarming celebration unfolded as Lawyer Stephen Asante Bekoe and his son, Paa Kwasi Adom Asante, marked a significant milestone by graduating with Master’s degrees in Law from the esteemed University of Ghana School of Law.

    Lawyer Asante Bekoe achieved a remarkable feat by earning his LLM in Natural Resources Law, while his son, Paa Kwasi Adom Asante, excelled in his studies, graduating with an LLM in Energy Law.

    Beyond their academic accomplishments, Lawyer Asante Bekoe has a rich history of leadership roles and contributions to various organizations.

    He proudly serves as the National President of the Okuapemman Past Students Association and holds the prestigious position of President of the Ghana Canoeing Federation.

    In addition to these roles, Lawyer Asante Bekoe is dedicated to the betterment of society, serving as a board member of the Ghana Library Authority and contributing as a member of the Legal and Constitution sub-committee of the Ghana Olympic Committee.

    The achievements of both father and son stand as a testament to their commitment to academic excellence and service to the community.

  • KNUST student passes away a day to his graduation

    KNUST student passes away a day to his graduation

    A final-year Master’s student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has sadly passed away just one day before his scheduled graduation.

    The news of his untimely demise was shared by the campus-based Twitter account, “Voice of KNUST,” which conveyed the deep sorrow felt by the university community.

    According to Voice of KNUST, Aboagye was pursuing a Master’s degree in Architecture.

    The heartbreaking news was disclosed by Christian’s brother, revealing that Christian and his friends had been in the midst of arranging for a graduation suit for the upcoming ceremony. Unfortunately, their plans were shattered when they received a call just hours before the graduation ceremony, delivering the devastating news of Christian’s sudden passing.

    The post, accompanied by a picture of the departed student, expressed the collective grief and shock experienced by those within the university community.

    “Christian Nsiah Aboagye, a Master of Architecture student of KNUST, passed away just moments before his graduation ceremony. “We had planned to buy his graduation suit, but unfortunately, we couldn’t find one on Friday evening. Therefore, we made arrangements to get it early on Saturday morning.

    “However, on Saturday morning, we received a heartbreaking call from his brother, informing us that Chris was no longer with us. – A close friend.”

  • Be employers not job seekers – UCOMS graduates urged

    Be employers not job seekers – UCOMS graduates urged

    Graduates of the University College of Management Studies (UCOMS) have been urged to utilise the knowledge acquired to create jobs.

    President of the Wisconsin International University College, Professor Obeng Mireku said it is time graduates create more jobs to reduce the unemployment rates in the country.

    “Complement government’s efforts in the realm of employment by striving to become your own employers and you will appreciate the dignity of labour,” he added.

    Prof Mireku made the comment as the Guest Speaker at the 12th congregation ceremony of UCOMS held at its Jerusalem campus in Kasoa over the weekend.

    Be employers not job seekers - UCOMS graduates urged

    It was on the theme: ‘Re-imaging tertiary education in the era of global recession: The role of UCOMS’.

    Prof Mireku indicated that, in this era of global recession, “the sky is no longer the limit; do not rest on your oars”

    “We are in a tremendous time for opportunity and innovation and I believe fervently that the education and skills you have acquired at UCOMS have equipped you to meet the challenges of this era of global recession where there is no doubt a significant rise in the unemployment rate” he added.

    He also encouraged them to exhibit high levels of dedication, accountability, integrity and honesty in all their professional careers to better themselves.

    Be employers not job seekers - UCOMS graduates urged

    Prof Mireku noted that, life is not as rosy as it appears but with determination and hard work, they can make it.

    “As they go out there to face to unknown, may I assure them that with hard work and faith in God, nothing can dismantle their success in life” he opined.

    Also, Chairman of the University Council, Prof. Vladimir Antwi-Danso said UCOMS will be introducing new programmes in areas which will benefit the Ghanaian society.

    He said due to the quality tuition, their graduates are found in all sectors of the economy competing favourably in the job market both nationally and internationally.

    Be employers not job seekers - UCOMS graduates urged

    Prof.  Antwi-Danso expressed appreciation to their mentor institution, University of Education, Winneba and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission their ensuring very high standards are maintained in training the young men and women.

    Vice Chancellor, University of Education, Winneba, Prof. Mawutor Avoke in a speech read on his behalf charged the graduates to be part of the solution to Ghana’s problems.

    He charged them to be agents of change to empower them to improve their immediate environment and beyond.

    Prof. Avoke urged the graduands to hold themselves to high ethical standards in their chosen fields.

    Consulting Rector of UCOMS, Prof. George Kankam said their curriculum is industry relevant to make their students marketable.

    He noted that, given the current socio-economic conditions in the country, they have also introduced flexible payment systems to allow a lot more people have access to university education.

    Prof. Kankam added that, plans are far advanced to gain autonomy to make UCOMS a fully-fledged public university.

    15 of the graduands had First Class, 80 Second Class Upper, 36 and 4 had Second Class Lower and Third Class respectively.

    The graduating students from the faculty of Business Administration with majors in Accounting, Banking and Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Procurement, and Supply Chain Management were awarded Bachelor of Science degrees.

    Also students from the faculty of Education, Hospitality and Tourism Management were also presented with BSc degrees.

    Charles Darkwah who pursued BSc in Accounting was adjudged the overall best graduating student. He also won the Founder’s Excellence Award.

    Mr. Darkwah delivered the valedictory address on behalf of his cohort and expressed profound gratitude to the University community, their parents and loved ones for their sacrifices and pledged their commitment to make the institution proud in all their endeavours.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com