The University of Education, Winneba has hosted the inaugural Osahen Afenyo-Markin Annual Excellence Public Lecture, focusing on the theme of selfless leadership and public service, with a strong call for integrity, accountability, and trust in governance.
The event, held in Winneba, was jointly organised by the Effutu Local Council of Christian Churches, the Effutu Traditional Council led by Neenyi Ghartey VII, and the Muslim community. It also attracted a wide cross-section of participants, including traditional leaders, academics, students, political figures, and development partners.
The lecture formed part of activities to celebrate and honour the Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who recently marked his 48th birthday. He was recognised for his leadership in Parliament and his contributions to public service and legal practice.
A keynote address was delivered by former MP and economist Mark Assibey-Yeboah, who emphasised that the strength of any nation depends on the quality of its leadership rather than just economic achievements or institutional frameworks.
He noted that one of the biggest challenges facing modern democracies is the erosion of public trust in leadership, stressing that citizens increasingly question whether public office is still rooted in service and sacrifice. According to him, leadership should be defined by stewardship, accountability, and the ability to place national interest above personal ambition.
Dr Assibey-Yeboah also commended the collaboration between traditional authorities and religious groups in organising the lecture, describing it as an important example of unity in national development efforts. He argued that sustainable progress depends not only on infrastructure and economic growth but also on ethical leadership and responsible citizenship.
He further urged leaders across all sectors—including politics, academia, religion, and traditional governance—to reflect on the values they promote, warning that democracy cannot thrive where trust in public service is weakened.
In his remarks, Afenyo-Markin expressed gratitude to organisers, dignitaries, and mentors, while also acknowledging the support of his family, particularly his mother. He described the event as a meaningful moment of reflection on leadership and public responsibility.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of citations to selected individuals, followed by a symbolic cake-cutting to mark Afenyo-Markin’s birthday and honour his contributions to the Effutu State and national development.
