2nd Session of 30th Congregation: UEW Chancellor Urges Graduates to Lead National Transformation
Neenyi Ghartey VII, the Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has called on graduates to become innovators, problem-solvers and active contributors to national development.
Speaking at the Second Session of the 30th Congregation of UEW, ongoing at the Jophus Anamuah-Mensah Conference Centre from Wednesday, 22nd to Saturday, 25th April, 2026, the Chancellor described the occasion as a moment of pride and responsibility, stressing that graduation is not merely the end of academic work but the beginning of a greater national duty.
He noted that each degree represents years of sacrifice, discipline and determination but emphasised that beyond the celebration lies a call to action. “Congregation is not just an end; it is an entry point into responsibility,” he stated, urging graduands to rise to the demands of a rapidly changing national and global environment.
Neenyi Ghartey VII placed his address within the context of Ghana’s ongoing economic reforms, highlighting the country’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund programme as a period of fiscal discipline that is reshaping public spending, investment and opportunities. He explained that this evolving landscape requires a shift in mindset among graduands and institutions alike. “The era of predictable pathways is narrowing. Opportunity will not always be provided; it must often be created,” he remarked.
The Chancellor urged the graduates of UEW to transcend reliance on the limited opportunities present in the public sector. He emphasised the importance of embracing innovation, entrepreneurship and value creation as essential components for future success.
Neenyi Ghartey VII asserted that the advancement of the nation is contingent upon graduates who are equipped to think critically, act decisively and make meaningful contributions to society. In his remarks on the University's role, he advocated for a transformation in higher education delivery, urging UEW to evolve beyond its traditional mandate and emerge as an institution oriented towards problem-solving.
He emphasised the need for teaching, research and community engagement to be closely aligned with real societal needs. “We must train graduates who understand not only theory but application, not only knowledge but impact,” he said, adding that research must go beyond academic publications to influence policy, drive enterprise and create jobs.
The Chancellor also appealled to the government to recognise universities as strategic partners in national development rather than mere expenditure centres. He stressed that while fiscal discipline is necessary, it should not undermine investment in knowledge and innovation which remain critical to long-term economic resilience.
To the University community, he underscored the importance of internal accountability, efficiency and relevance in academic programming. He noted that institutions must embody the discipline they advocate.
Addressing the graduands directly, Nennyi Ghartey VII delivered a strong message of responsibility and self-determination, urging them to reject entitlement and embrace the challenge of innovation. “Do not measure your future by the availability of jobs alone. Measure it by your capacity to create value. Your education is not just a privilege; it is a responsibility,” he advised.
He further encouraged graduates to see themselves as key players in Ghana’s development, stressing that national recovery requires active participation from educated citizens. According to him, building a more disciplined, efficient and resilient nation depends on the choices and actions of graduates.
The Chancellor congratulated the graduands for their resilience and perseverance, acknowledging the sacrifices they made in balancing academic, professional and personal responsibilities. He challenged them to translate their knowledge into practical impact in their workplaces and communities.
The ceremony was part of UEW’s 30th Congregation Second Session, celebrating academic achievements and reaffirming the University’s role in shaping leaders and professionals equipped to contribute to Ghana’s progress.
