GCTU Hosts Festival Of Nine Lessons And Carols Service

GCTU brought the spirit of the festive season alive by hosting the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols on December 18, 2024, at the Florence Onny Auditorium.
Organized by the Chaplaincy Board, the event celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ with a harmonious blend of scripture, music and reflection, fostering unity and joy within the university community.
This year’s celebration marked the resumption of the cherished tradition which had been suspended in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Revitalized under the guidance of university management, the service reflected the commitment of GCTU to preserving its cultural and spiritual values.

In her sermonette on Christmas, the Chairperson of the Chaplaincy Board and a Faculty member of the Economics Department, Rev. Prof. Ivy Drafor-Amenyah reflected on the significance of the season, emphasizing the values of peace, joy, love, kindness and generosity. She noted that Christmas is a season that lends itself to reflection, evoking a sense of reverence and awe. “As we gather to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the profound significance of humility, as exemplified by His arrival in a humble manger rather than a mansion,” she emphasized.

Rev. Prof. Drafor-Amenyah further added that embracing humility over pride can bring joy and foster a sense of harmony, ultimately making the University community a better place. According to her, Christmas presents an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery, enabling one to reevaluate their abilities and potential. She highlighted the biblical account of Mary and the shepherds who were interrupted while tending to their flocks, stressing that it illustrates the importance of allowing oneself to be interrupted by God’s divine plan. Rev. Prof. Drafor-Amenyah referenced “Micah 5:2” as a biblical example of how individuals often underestimate their own significance and potential, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chaplaincy Board for revitalizing the festival of nine lessons and carols service. He also thanked Faculty, Staff, students and stakeholders of GCTU for their immense contributions to the University’s growth and success over the years. The VC proudly highlighted the University’s notable achievements, including a substantial growth in student enrollment, with significant increases in both graduate and undergraduate populations. Prof. Afoakwa indicated that the University had also introduced multiple local programmes and had seen a tremendous increase in enrollment in the graduate programmes with the addition of two accredited PhD programmes.

Prof. Afoakwa emphasized the importance of modernizing the University’s infrastructure, stressing that the University is embarking on an exciting development project, with the construction of a six-storey building as part of the second phase of the Graduate School extension project. This new facility he said will provide a state-of-the-art learning environment, equipped with modern amenities and technology, to support the academic success of students. These developments he indicated demonstrate GCTU’s commitment to becoming a premier institution for technology and innovation in the sub-region. The Vice-Chancellor concluded his speech by challenging Staff to continue their tireless efforts in supporting the University’s transformation. He wished the University community a joyous and peaceful Christmas season.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo situated the Christmas celebration within the broader context of the University’s core values, highlighting their significance in shaping the institution’s culture and identity guiding institutional decision-making. “We assemble here to celebrate Christmas. Let us be reminded of the University’s core values, including quality, student-centeredness, academic freedom and diversity.” According to him, the University’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols service is a cherished tradition that unites the institution in a spirit of joy, unity and celebration.

“Although the event was regrettably suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are delighted to announce its resumption in 2024, under the guidance of the University Management,” he said. Mr. Baidoo acknowledged the Chaplaincy Board and the University Relations Directorate for their collaborative efforts in making the Christmas carol service a memorable and enjoyable experience.

The GCTU Choir, “The Royal Voices,” delighted the gathering with a magnificent rendition of Christmas carols and choral pieces, showcasing their exceptional musical talent and artistry.