The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) witnessed a moment of resounding inspiration during the second session of its 29th Congregation as Ms. Jemima Akoni, valedictorian for the Congregation delivered an address that captured the trials, triumphs and tenacity of the university’s newest graduates.
Speaking to a jubilant audience, Ms. Jemima Akoni, a product of the College for Distance and e-Learning (CODeL) with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.90, stood as a beacon of resilience, reflecting on a journey marked by academic rigour, personal sacrifices and hope.
“This day marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and perseverance. From the early morning lectures to the late-night study sessions, we have pushed ourselves to excel and grow,” she stated.
In recounting her academic trajectory, Ms. Jemima Akoni did not shy away from the personal challenges she faced — financial hurdles and the demands of balancing work, academic obligations and religious responsibilities. Yet, she emphasised the inner strength and support systems that sustained her through adversity.
“The strength within us is greater than any storm around us,” she affirmed, crediting her faith, family, mentors and colleagues for their unyielding encouragement. Her gratitude extended to the UEW community, particularly the staff of the CODeL Koforidua Centre, whose commitment she described as instrumental in shaping both minds and futures.
Ms. Jemima Akoni’s message, however, transcended personal reflection. With passion and purpose, she issued a clarion call to her fellow graduates to embrace their roles as nation-builders.
“We are not just educators; we are changemakers, innovators, and leaders. Let us create a brighter future for ourselves, our students and our communities,” she remarked
In a spirit of collective celebration, she acknowledged key individuals in her life—including family, mentors, and peers such as her study partner, Dorcas Amoabeng Adade, who also graduated with first-class honours.
Ms. Jemima Akoni left her peers with a powerful charge: “Never stop learning, never stop growing and never stop pushing yourself to excel. We are not defined by the ease of our journey but by the strength we show along the way.”
With the motto of CODeL and the name of the university resounding in her final words, Ms. Jemima Akoni’s speech was more than a farewell—it was a torch passed forward to the next generation of educators united by shared experience and driven by purpose.
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