Faculty of Graduate Studies Archives - Global Engagement

91��ɫ U alumna makes history as Ghana’s first female vice-president

amaav — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:01:00 +0000

When Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang was sworn in as Ghana’s first female vice-president on Jan. 7, it marked the latest barrier shattered by the 91��ɫ alumna.

Her inauguration is another milestone in her journey from distinguished academic to national leader. Long before entering the political arena, she achieved historic firsts as the first female vice-chancellor of a Ghanaian public university in 2008, and Ghana’s first female minister of education, appointed by then-president John Mahama after the 2012 Ghanaian general election.

Her journey began in 1977 at the University of Cape Coast where she graduated with a BA (Hons) in education. She followed up with a master’s and doctoral degree in 1980 and 1986 respectively, both in English literature, at 91��ɫ.

Vice-Provost and Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Alice MacLachlan, says: “Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s trajectory as an alumna speaks to the nature of graduate research here at 91��ɫ – in particular, our commitment to cutting-edge research that remains socially engaged and grounded.

“We are all extraordinarily proud of her achievements and her commitment to political leadership and empowerment, and we honour her status as the first woman to take on so many crucial roles: first woman vice-chancellor of a Ghanian public university, first woman minister of education, and – now – first woman vice-president. Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s example reminds us that a master’s or doctoral degree from 91��ɫ – in any field – empowers our alumni to change the world.”

Opoku-Agyemang taught and worked at the University of Cape Coast beginning in 1986. She has held various academic positions, including: head of the Department of English, dean of the Faculty of Arts, warden of Adehye Hall, Valco Trust Fund Post-Graduate Hostel, and the founding dean of School of Graduate Studies and Research. In 1997, she was named academic director of the School for International Training in the History and Cultures of the African Diaspora. From 2008-12, she was the Cape Coast University's vice-chancellor.

Professor Solomon Boakye-Yiadom, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies Dean J.J. McMurtry, Vice-President of Ghana Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice-President Research & Innovation Amir Asif, Professor Godfred Boateng and Director of Global and Community Partnerships Julie Hard during a meeting in Cape Coast in early 2024 during 91��ɫ’s first institutional visit to Ghana.

In November 2019, she returned to 91��ɫ’s Keele Campus to participate in the Tubman Talks series for the discussion “On Feminizing the Academic Space in Ghana: The Story of a 91��ɫ U Alumna,” where she shared her experiences as an academic in Ghana. With a population of more than 36 million people, Ghana is a country in western Africa, situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. The country gained independence from the United Kingdom in March 1957.

"Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang's historic appointment as Ghana's first female vice-president is a significant achievement that reflects her commitment to education, leadership and public service," says J.J. McMurtry, dean of the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. "Her accomplishment underscores her role as a pioneer for women in leadership, illustrating the potential for transformative change within governance and public service. As an alumna of 91��ɫ, her success serves as an inspiration for our students and exemplifies the values of our Faculty, highlighting the impact of a 91��ɫ education in shaping leaders who contribute meaningfully to society. We look forward to seeing the continued impact she will make in her field and on the next generation of student leaders in Ghana."

In July 2020, when she was first chosen to be his vice-presidential running mate by former president John Dramani Mahama, Opoku-Agyemang said: “Making history is gratifying; but what really matters is not to be first through the door. What matters is to hold the door open for those behind us and create other avenues for self-actualization for many more.”

Opoku-Agyemang’s journey serves as a testament to the limitless potential of dreams. Her achievement not only sets new precedents, but also ignites the belief that no dream is unachievable. Through hard work, resilience and an unwavering commitment to her vision, she has paved the way for future generations of women and Black leaders everywhere.

Originally published in YFile.

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91��ɫ lauds Ratan Tata’s role in strengthening India-Canada relations through education

amaav — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:31:00 +0000

By Gloria Suhasini

As tributes pour in from around the world following the passing of Ratan Tata passing, the University is lauding the global visionary’s contributions to internationalization of education.
Tata has played a significant role in strengthening India-Canada relations not only through business operations in Canada, but also as a regular contributor to the higher-education sector, maintaining ties with universities, including offering motivational lectures and master classes to business students.

Ratan Tata (left) and industrialist GM Rao, right, outside 91��ɫ’s Hyderabad Campus, ten years ago

Tata forged a relationship that served as a guiding force in establishing its business school in India. “91��ɫ community is deeply saddened by the passing of the extraordinary global icon and an esteemed friend to 91��ɫ,” said Vinitha Gengatharan, Assistant Vice-President, Global Engagement & Partnerships at 91��ɫ International, paying tribute to the legendary businessman and philanthropist. “His tremendous support helped shape our Hyderabad Campus will be cherished.”

Tata was a founding member of 91��ɫ’s India Advisory Council announced during opening of the University’s Hyderabad Campus in September 2014. Earlier that year, Tata was recognized with an Honorary Doctor of Laws by 91��ɫ.

, he said: “I had no idea that this university and this business school … moved beyond the shores of Canada to reflect the internationality of the world we live in.” He added, “Just remember that there are millions of people who are less fortunate than you are and that hopefully of the achievement you will make in your life will be making a difference.”

At the ceremony, Dezso J. Horvath, then dean of the Schulich School of Business, praised Tata as one of the great architects of modern India and a global visionary in business.

Then dean of Schulich School of Business congratulating iconic global industrialist Ratan Tata upon receiving Honorary Doctor of Laws from 91��ɫ in 2014

Horvath noted that Tata embodies core values taught at the business school – a global mindset, commitment to excellence and innovation, as well as a resolute belief that business can improve society.

Gengatharan also notes that Tata’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility echoed and inspired 91��ɫ’s own.

Originally published in New@91��ɫ.

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President Rhonda Lenton welcomes international students to 91��ɫ

amaav — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:41:00 +0000

By Gloria Suhasini

New and returning students enjoy a meet and greet with the University president, foreign diplomats and peers

“From the very first day I stepped on the 91��ɫ campus, what I found most appealing was the mix of students from all over the world! This led to new friendships and connections which continue to make my university experience even more rewarding.” said Damor McQueen, a fourth-year political science student from Jamaica, speaking at the President’s International Student Reception on September 25.

The Student Success Mentor Lead in the Black Excellence at 91��ɫ program urged his peers to build new connections and get involved in academic and extracurricular activities to make the be best of “this once in a lifetime opportunity being presented to you.” He cited his own experience volunteering last year at the Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences hosted by 91��ɫ that led to his current work/study student opportunity.

President Rhonda Lenton with recipients of the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, awarded to high school applicants around the world, who are entering their first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at the university

91��ɫ continues to attract students like McQueen from around the world, who join the community with great enthusiasm to receive worldclass education — often work-integrated — in their chosen field, be that in the arts, science, technology or engineering.

To make high quality university education accessible, 91��ɫ offers several . One such scholarship is the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, awarded to high school applicants around the world, who are entering their first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at the university. Another scholarship popular among international students is the Tentanda Via Award. Named after 91��ɫ’s motto “The Way Must Be Tried,” it assists undergraduate students who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming significant personal barriers in the pursuit of a university education and progressive changemakers committed to sustainable development.

Other scholarships available for international students include Daughters for Life, the Global Leader of Tomorrow Award, and Mitacs Internships and Awards. Several attended the president's reception. For additional information, students are encouraged to visit 91��ɫ’s Global Engagement��ɱ��ٱ�.

“While it is our intention to support you in your academic journey, you also bring a wealth of insights and strengths to 91��ɫ," President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton told the student audiences. “We are thrilled that you chose us, and we look forward to what we will accomplish together. Please remember that nothing is more important than your well-being and health and we have many student services to support you.”

The event organized by was also attended by China’s Education Counsels Renzhu Li and Wenjin Han; India’s Consul (Commerce & Political) Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh; and the Philippine Deputy Consul General Kerwin Orville Tate and Consul Rodney Jonas Sumague.

These diplomatic representatives to Canada were not only present to celebrate their respective country’s highly talented students, but also to assure support in their new country of temporary residence. “We wish them the very best in their courses of study,” said Singh. “The Indian Consulate remains at disposal for welfare and well-being of all Indian international students in Canada.”

Philippine Deputy Consul General Kerwin Orville Tate, second from left, and Consul Rodney Jonas Sumague, right, were among the foreign diplomats in attendance

Diplomats were also on hand to speak to the students during the networking hour, a rare opportunity for these outstanding future leaders of the world.

By the end of the event, it was evident that many students had forged enriching new friendships that could last a lifetime, while advancing their education and career aspirations.

Originally published in News@91��ɫ.

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