The University of Ghana has honoured 131 retiring staff members in a heartfelt send-off ceremony, celebrating decades of dedication, sacrifice, and lasting impact on Ghana’s premier university.
Held at the iconic Great Hall, the event was graced by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, who described the contributions of the retirees as “foundational to the university’s success.”
“Your contributions have been instrumental in advancing our mission of teaching, research, and service to society,” Prof. Amfo said. “You’ve shaped generations of students and colleagues, and your influence will continue to ripple through the university’s future.”
The ceremony, themed “Dedication and Service: Appreciating Legacies that Last,” saw glowing tributes from university leadership, including the Registrar, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah. It was an emotional gathering that brought together colleagues, family, and friends of the retiring staff, many of whom had served the university for over three decades.
The 131 retirees span across various units and roles:
- 24 senior academic staff
- 9 senior administrative/professional staff
- 27 senior technical staff
- 18 senior non-technical staff
- 17 junior technical staff
- 35 junior non-technical staff
- 1 teaching assistant
Each name tells a story of dedication, early mornings, late nights, and a quiet commitment to helping UG stand tall as a leader in higher education.
Prof. Amfo paid special tribute to academic staff, praising their role in maintaining UG’s strong reputation across Africa and beyond.
“According to the latest QS World University Rankings, the University of Ghana remains the best university in Ghana and the entire West African sub-region,” she noted. “That’s a feat you should all be proud to have contributed toward.”
She also used the opportunity to highlight the university’s new strategic direction—outlined in the 2024–2029 Strategic Plan—which focuses on improving the student experience, increasing research impact, supporting faculty and staff, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring sustainable growth.
“We’ve deepened our commitment to digital transformation and global collaboration,” she said. “And we’re building a university ready for the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century.”
In a moving speech close to her, Prof. Amfo assured the retirees that their connection to the university does not end with retirement.
“The University of Ghana will always be your home,” she said. “We are committed to engaging and supporting our retiree network, ensuring you continue to feel valued and involved.”
The ceremony concluded with warm hugs, smiles, and nostalgic conversations as the UG community bid farewell—not with sadness, but with gratitude.
As the sun sets on their official journey with the university, the legacies of these 131 individuals remain woven into the very fabric of Legon’s story.
