Kufuor gets Legon Doctorate

The University of Ghana, Legon, has conferred an Honorary Doctor of Law Degree on former President John Agyekum Kufuor for his distinguished contribution to public service.

He was recognised for promoting democracy in the country as well as contributing to the development of the university.

Ex-President Kufuor changed the face of Legon with the provision of many facilities, including the new residential hostels on campus.

The former president is using funds from his award of the World Food Prize on June 21, 2011 to set up the John Agyekum Kufuor Centre for Leadership, Governance and Development at the University of Ghana.

The centre, which would comprise appropriate facilities to befit the status of a Presidential Centre of international repute, is expected to complement academic programmes being offered by the University.

Conferring the award on him at the 65th Anniversary Special Congregation, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Ernest Aryeetey said every Ghanaian knows what President Kufuor did as president and what he continues to do for the nation.

He noted that Mr Kufuor achieved a lot for the university and the country as a whole, adding that “he believed in democracy and we are proud to honour him”.

Former Vice Chancellors of the University, Professor Kwadwo Asenso-Okyere and Clifford Nii-Boi Tagoe, were also awarded for their outstanding achievements during their tenure.

The special congregation was presided over by Dr Kofi Annan, Chancellor of the University.

Other awardees were Rev. Canon John Samuel Pobee, Professor Ama Ata Aidoo, Prof. Emmanuel V. Doku, Frank Brako Adu Jnr., Managing Director of Cal Bank, Dr Vartan Gregorian, Sir John Daniel, Alfred Teddy Daniel Konu, a former Registrar of the University, Prof. Grace Marquise, Mrs Rachel Phillips, Ambassador James Aggrey-Orleans, Prof. Samuel Nunoo Woode, former Chairman of the Public Services Commission, Anthony Oteng-Gyasi, former Chairman of the University Council and Mrs. Cecilia Kwofie.