Former Minister of Defence Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu has challenged young graduates to use their education, skills, and opportunities to tackle poverty, serve their communities, and contribute to Ghana’s development.
Delivering remarks at the fifth congregation ceremony of Academic City University in Accra, the veteran statesman encouraged graduates to view their academic achievements not merely as personal success but as a responsibility to improve the lives of others and support national progress.
Alhaji Iddrisu stressed that education carries an obligation to give back to society with honesty, integrity, and selfless service.
“You have acquired knowledge and opportunities that should be used to uplift others and contribute meaningfully to the development of the country,” he told the graduating class.
The event saw 157 students graduate, comprising four master’s degree holders and 153 undergraduate students from various disciplines.
The ceremony also provided an opportunity for Academic City University to honour Alhaji Iddrisu with its Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his decades of service to Ghana and his contribution to national development.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Alhaji Iddrisu recounted the educational challenges that existed in Northern Ghana during his youth, when access to secondary and tertiary education was limited for many young people.
He observed that generations of Northerners faced significant barriers due to inadequate educational infrastructure and unequal opportunities, making access to education a privilege that many could not attain.
The former Defence Minister noted that Ghana’s development has been driven by the collective efforts of ordinary citizens across various sectors rather than the contributions of a few prominent individuals.
According to him, farmers, teachers, traders, security personnel, students, and countless others have all played vital roles in building the nation and advancing its progress.
Alhaji Iddrisu also commended Academic City University for its commitment to producing future leaders through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
He described the institution as a beacon of innovation and hope, preparing young people with the skills and mindset required to address the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Addressing the graduates, he expressed confidence in their ability to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond, urging them to remain guided by character, discipline, and a spirit of service.
Earlier, Academic City University conferred its Distinguished Service Award on Alhaji Iddrisu for what it described as his exceptional leadership, integrity, and longstanding commitment to public service.
Presenting the award, the President of Academic City University, Prof. Fred McBagonluri, praised Alhaji Iddrisu’s record of national service, noting that his leadership and dedication to nation-building continue to inspire younger generations.
He said the values exemplified by the former minister—humility, patriotism, and transformational leadership—align closely with the university’s mission of developing ethical and impact-driven leaders for Africa and the wider world.
The congregation ceremony therefore served both as a celebration of academic achievement and a call for graduates to use their education as a force for positive change and national development.
