The Faculty of Arts of the College of Humanities and Legal Studies, University of Cape Coast (UCC) has held its maiden Dean's Award Ceremony, honouring the remarkable achievements of its top students. 

The efforts of these students, from levels 100 to level 300 who aggregated a Cumulative Grade Point Aggregate (CGPA) of 3.6 and above were acknowledged with the presentation of certificates.

Overall, 92 students received awards with the breakdown as follows; 40 level 100 students, 22 level 200 students and 30 level 300 students.

In his address, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof. Kwabena Sarfo Sarfo-Kantanka, explained that the purpose of the ceremony was to celebrate the remarkable achievement, dedication, and perseverance of students, who have worked hard in their academic journey to set themselves apart as exemplary scholars by attaining First Class Honours. He emphasised the importance of the humanities in cultivating critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Prof. Sarfo-Kantanka (left) in a tete-a-tete with the MP for Cape Coast North, Dr. Mintah Nyarku

"In a rapidly changing world, the humanities remain essential in nurturing thoughtful, informed, and well-rounded individuals capable of making meaningful contributions to society," he noted.

The guest speaker, Prof. Philip Ebow Bondzi-Simpson, Vice-Chancellor of Methodist University Ghana, spoke on the theme, "The Arts and the World of Work: Prospects for Today's Arts Students." He highlighted the value that the Arts bring to the table and urged the awardees to consider pursuing further studies in the various academic disciplines to enhance their career prospects.

"Notwithstanding, the Arts, is a fertile opportunity for employment and self-employment. The purpose of every education is to prepare and equip us to be functional and useful members of society so that we can render service and produce goods that will provide value in building economic value for society and self," he said.

Prof. Philip Ebow Bondzi-Simpson presenting a certificate of honour to an awardee

The Chairman of the ceremony, Prof. Kwame Osei Kwarteng, Provost for the College of Humanities and Legal Studies, congratulated the faculty for their dedication to training highly qualified human resources for the country. He encouraged the awardees to maintain their focus and determination to complete their programmes successfully. "If you want to add value to your achievement, be focused and determined", he advised.

Present at the awards ceremony, were the honourable Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North, Dr. Kwamena Mintah Nyarku, some Deans, Heads of Department, faculty members and students from the faculty.

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC