On a day filled with joy and academic accomplishments, the College of Health Sciences of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) successfully held a graduation ceremony for 1,479 undergraduate students at the 57th Congregation on Thursday, the 16th of November 2023. The ceremony, encompassing the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Sciences, School of Medicine and Dentistry, the School of Public Health, and the School of Veterinary Medicine unfolded with a spirit of celebration and achievement.

Amidst others dressed in academic robes and colourful regalia the graduating students, accompanied by their families and distinguished guests, gathered at the Great Hall. The ceremony kicked off with a procession of lecturers and then continued with a procession of graduates, showcasing the diverse range of health science disciplines represented in this year's graduating class.

Throughout the event, speakers from the health sector and academia delivered inspirational addresses, emphasizing the importance of the graduates' roles in advancing healthcare. They commended the dedication and hard work exhibited by the students during their academic journey at KNUST.

As degrees were conferred, the atmosphere was filled with cheers, applause, and a sense of accomplishment. Awards were presented to outstanding students who demonstrated exceptional academic performance and leadership. The awardees were:

Faculty of Allied Health Sciences

1. IBRAHIM, Hamza -BSc Medical Imaging

2. ABUTIATE, Solomon - BSc Medical Laboratory Technology

3. ABANKWA, Stephen Badu - BSc Nursing

4. TENKORANG, Antoinette Osei Ansong (Miss) - BSc Midwifery

5. ACHEAMPONG, Afia Nyarko (Miss) - BSc Nursing (Emergency Nursing)

6. KESSE, Grace Asiamah (Miss) - BSc Physiotherapy and Sports Science

 

Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

1. ADDO, Moses Yeboah - PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy)

2. YEBOAH, Flavia Owusu - BSc Herbal Medcine

 

School of Veterinary Medicine

1. GOKA, Prince Dela - Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

 

School of Public Health

1. ABDULAI, Lamisi Kolbil (Miss) - BSc Disability and Rehabilitation Studies

 

School of Medical Sciences

1. BOAHIN, Albert Kwaku - MBCHB. Medicine and Surgery

2. MWANGU, Gbolo Mathew - BDS. Dental Surgery

3. MADUABUM, Fati Chinelo (Miss) - BSc Human Biology (Dentistry)

4. DWAMENA, Kofi Ammishaddai - BSc Physician Assistantship

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the valedictory speech delivered by Prince Dela Goka, a student from the School of Veterinary Medicine who graduated with a CWA of 73.90 Expressing gratitude for the education received and sharing aspirations for the future, the valedictorian shared insights into the glorious moments and difficulties faced during their years of learning within the College of Health Sciences. He also spoke about the discipline instilled by the College, emphasizing the importance of maintaining ethical standards in the healthcare profession. Quoting Proverbs 11:3, the valedictorian drew attention to the biblical wisdom, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity." As graduates embark on their various professional journeys, the valedictorian passionately conveyed a crucial message: "Our calling is not only to heal but to do so with unwavering ethics and compassion!" This resonated deeply with the audience. He finally ended his speech with a quote from Winston Churchill "Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that count.”

The 57th graduation ceremony for the KNUST College of Health Sciences not only marked the end of an academic chapter for the students but also symbolized the beginning of their professional journeys. The event concluded, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of all who attended and also creating a lasting remembrance for everyone who had the privilege to be there.

As the sun sets on this memorable day, KNUST celebrates the successful transition of another group of healthcare professionals into the world, ready to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of communities. The university continues to uphold its commitment to excellence in education and the preparation of skilled professionals who will contribute significantly to the healthcare landscape.