The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has conferred a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, on His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, at a special congregation.
The honour was in recognition of his distinguished statesmanship, contribution to education in Ghana, as a purveyor of traditional jurisprudence and advocate of the rule of law. Further, the recognition was hinged on His Royal Majesty’s efforts towards the promotion of peace and stability, and for standing out as a visionary and generational thinker, entrepreneur, guardian of culture and role model.
Enhancing Education
Receiving the honorary doctorate, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed appreciation to the University for recognising and honouring his efforts and promised to work more for the betterment of the country.
"Let me express my profound gratitude to the Chancellor, chairman and members of the Council of this great institution for the honour bestowed on me. It is an honour, which I accept with humility and proudly share with Nananom whose joint efforts have contributed to everything I have achieved," he said.
He reiterated his dedication to promoting peace, education, unity, and development in the country asserting that Cape Coast remained the gateway to Ghana’s education.
In the spirit of ensuring a holistic approach to address the country’s educational challenges, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II called for reasonable remuneration for teachers due to the critical services they provide.
The Asantehene also lamented the gaping disconnect between the state and academia which robbed universities of their role in shaping policies and revolutionalising societies through scientific research discoveries. This, he attributed to abrasive political divisions.
He said, “...Unfortunately in our country, there is hardly any evidence of meaningful collaboration that needs to exist between the state and the universities. One reason the role of academia has been downplayed is that we have allowed the abrasive political divisions to permeate our sacred campuses and turn them into battlegrounds for partisan combat, instead of imbibing and dispensing knowledge.”
Contributions of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene and the Chancellor of UCC, Dr. (Sir) Sam Esson Jonah in a photo after the conferment
The Chancellor of UCC, Dr. Sir Sam Esson Jonah, described Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as a beacon who has played diverse roles in many spheres to bring development and peace in Ghana and beyond.
Dr. Sam Jonah hailed Otumfuo’s prowess in traditional wisdom and modern pragmatism.
“His reign has been a continuous demonstration of navigating complex issues with the blend of traditional wisdom and modern pragmatism. His ability to unite people from all walks of life has earned him profound respect and admiration globally,” he said.
He outlined the contribution of His Majesty in conflict resolution, economic development, education, health and more, affirming that his leadership was a testament to his deep commitment and understanding of traditional governance and his dedication to the welfare of his people.
“Upon ascending the Golden Stool, His Majesty made it his mission to address the many chieftaincy disputes that plagued the Asante state. This bold initiative brought together several areas once marked by division and conflict. One of the most remarkable examples is the pivotal role he played in restoring peace in the Dagbon Traditional Area,” the Chancellor added.
Dr. Sam Jonah added that beyond Otumfuo’s contribution to peace and justice, he has been an unwavering advocate for education and economic development.
The Asantehene being congratulated by the Pro Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Prof. Mrs. Rosemond Boohene
The UCC Chancellor added that Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s influence extends far beyond the borders of this country with his timely intervention in matters of national and international importance having significant impact.
Further, he said in 2016, former President John Agyekum Kufuor highlighted how His Majesty’s advocacy at the IMF was instrumental in sustaining Ghana’s economy during his tenure,” he added.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong congratulated the Asantehene on his award and described him as an astute leader whose contribution to nation-building and conflict resolution could not be downplayed.
He indicated that with the gains the University had made over the years, he was optimistic that Asantehene’s association with UCC would solidify the relationship between the University and Asanteman.
A section of Otumfuo’s entourage at the colourful ceremony
The ceremony was witnessed by Nananom, honourable ministers of state, members of the diplomatic corps, Justices of the Superior Courts of Ghana, academia and past and current members of UCC Management as well as staff, students and a cross-section of the general public.
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC