By Morkporkpor Anku
Accra, June 7, GNA – The Academic City University has honoured Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, a former Minister of Defence, with its Distinguished Service Award in Accra.
The award is in recognition of Alhaji Iddrisu’s exceptional dedication to public service, visionary leadership and immense contribution to Ghana’s national development.
He was honoured at the fifth congregation ceremony of the Academic City University where some 157 students were awarded various degrees.
The group comprised four master’s graduates and 153 undergraduate students
A citation from the University reads: “Through decades of distinguished service to the nation, he served as Ghana’s longest-serving Minister of Defence from 1985 to 1999, as well as Minister for the Interior, Secretary for Transport and Communication and Secretary for Defence.”
Professor Fred McBagonluri, the President of Academic City University, said throughout Alhaji Iddrisu’s illustrious career in public service, he demonstrated unwavering commitment, integrity and statesmanship in advancing national development and strengthening public institutions.
“His enduring legacy of visionary leadership, humility and selfless service continued to inspire generations of young Africans to pursue excellence, patriotism and transformational leadership,” Prof McBagonluri said.
“Widely admired for his statesmanship, humility and commitment to national development, Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu has continued to serve as a respected voice in governance and national discourse, inspiring generations through his dedication to public service, leadership and patriotism.”
“Academic City proudly celebrates his outstanding achievements and his lifelong commitment to nation-building.”
“These values resonate deeply with the University’s mission to develop ethical, innovative, and impact-driven leaders for Africa and the world.”
Alhaji Iddrisu expressed gratitude to Academic City University for honouring him.
He recounted the educational challenges that existed in Northern Ghana during his youthful years, stating that opportunities for secondary and higher education were extremely limited.
He highlighted how generations of Northerners were disadvantaged due to inadequate educational infrastructure and unequal access to opportunities.
The Statesman emphasised that Ghana’s progress had been achieved through the collective efforts of citizens from all walks of life, including farmers, teachers, traders, security personnel and students, rather than the efforts of any single individual or institution.
Alhaji Iddrisu described Academic City University as a symbol of hope, innovation and faith in the future.
He praised the University’s commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and its role in preparing young people for leadership and national development.
Alhaji Iddrisu urged graduates to use the knowledge and opportunities they had received to serve society, help reduce poverty and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development.
He encouraged them to give back to society honestly and selflessly, stressing that education carried a responsibility to improve the lives of others.
He commended the graduates for their achievements and expressed confidence that they possessed the skills, character and determination needed to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Morkporkpor Anku
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