GAUA GCTU Chapter Holds Handing-Over Ceremony
The Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA), GCTU Chapter, has held a memorable handing-over ceremony on Wednesday, July 31, 2024.
The event was marked by inspiring speeches, heartfelt acknowledgments, and a renewed commitment to the association’s growth and excellence.
Addressing the attendees, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Robert Ebo Hinson, who represented the Special Guest of Honour, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, centered his remarks around the theme of leadership.
“My dear incoming executives, ‘L’ for you as you take office is that you should lean on collective wisdom and not yours alone,” he emphasized. He further encouraged the new executives to “enlarge what works and diminish what does not work,” urging them to attain great things within relevant statutes and laws, and to display humility across all stakeholder networks.
Mr. Kwame Owusu-Ansah Afram, the newly elected GAUA President, expressed his gratitude and commitment to building on the foundation laid by past leaders. “My vision for our association is one of unity, progress, and excellence. Together with my team, we will commit to listening to your voice, amplifying your concerns, and working tirelessly to address those concerns,” he declared. Mr. Afram also acknowledged the fair and transparent electoral process and highlighted his team’s dedication to fostering harmonious industrial relations.
Earlier, the outgoing GAUA President, Dr. Nusrat-Jahan Abubakar, reflected on her tenure with pride and appreciation. She highlighted key achievements, including the formation of sub-committees, advocacy for assistant registrars, and the establishment of the GAUA constitution.
“As I hand over the mantle of leadership to the newly elected executive committee, I am confident that the foundation we have laid will serve as a springboard for even greater accomplishments,” Dr. Abubakar stated.
The ceremony also featured solidarity messages from sister associations. The Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo, emphasized unity and effective advocacy in his remarks. “May your leadership bring about positive change and improvement in the lives of all members,” he wished the new executives. Dr. Afia Nyarko Boakye, representing UTAG and the GCTU Ladies Association, commended the outgoing team and encouraged the new executives to build on their achievements. “Congratulations and just as we are all contributing to build the Silicon Valley of GCTU, you all with your efforts should push the agenda,” she added.
Mr. Eric Adu-Gyamfi, President of TEWU, invoked an Akan adage to highlight the confidence members have in the new leaders. “You have to listen to them with empathy and understanding,” he advised. Kardmel Yarteley Yartey, representing the Senior Staff Association, pledged support to the new executives, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration.
A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of five distinguished personalities for their significant contributions to the growth and unity of the association. Mr. Daniel Mohammed, Mr. Philip Larry Anguah, Madam Victoria Amoah, and Mrs. Susana Aryee (rtd) were awarded for their roles as electoral committee members, while Mrs. Phyllis Opoku Amoah was honoured for her pioneering role and long service as treasurer of the association.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the growth and success of GAUA,” he said, extending his congratulations to both the outgoing and incoming executives. “Let us continue to stand together in solidarity, united in our pursuit of justice, equality, and fairness for all GAUA members,” he urged.
The handing-over ceremony was a testament to the strength and unity of the GAUA GCTU Chapter, setting a positive tone for the new administration’s tenure.
