Accra: Twenty years after leaving the University of Ghana with a vow never to return, acclaimed actress Lydia Forson made a poignant return to the Great Hall as a guest speaker during the university’s graduation ceremonies. Her presence marked a significant moment that resonated deeply with graduates and faculty alike.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ms. Forson delivered the keynote address at the College of Humanities’ final day of the February Congregation Ceremonies. She candidly shared her challenging experiences as a student, recounting a journey filled with frustration and misunderstanding that ultimately led to redemption. “My last year here wasn’t pleasant. It marked the beginning of one of the hardest periods of my life,” she revealed, addressing an audience of graduates, university leaders, faculty, and families.
Ms. Forson, renowned for her influential work in Ghana’s film industry, confessed that her academic journey was fraught with difficulties. “To be honest, I barely made it out of here. It
was by the skin of my teeth,” she admitted, reflecting on her vow never to return after graduation.
The February 2026 congregation ceremonies were a milestone for the university, with 15,288 degrees conferred, including 153 PhD candidates, 4,197 master’s graduates, 10,543 undergraduates, and 395 diploma holders. The College of Humanities, the university’s largest college, celebrated its graduates against the backdrop of an unexpectedly emotional homecoming.
Professor Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Research and Innovation Directorate, presided over the ceremony, urging graduates to pursue excellence in their future endeavors. “Congratulations and best wishes to you all,” he said, highlighting the university’s performance in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
University Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo also commended the graduates for their hard work and resilience, emphasizing their readiness to contribute to national and global development.
The cerem
ony honored academic achievements, including Ms. Mofiyinfoluwa Motunrayo Samuel, a Nigerian scholar, who graduated as the valedictorian for her cohort with an impressive 3.95 FCGPA in French and Linguistics. Emmanuel Nana Yaw Appeagyei was named the overall Valedictorian for the College of Humanities with a 3.99 FGPA.
However, it was Lydia Forson’s raw and unfiltered address that captured the audience’s attention. Addressing an assembly including the Chancellor’s Representative, University Council members, and other dignitaries, Forson acknowledged her journey of frustration and growth. “This campus shaped me,” she declared, recalling her early career experiences and the lessons learned.
Forson challenged graduates to embrace their entire journey, including the difficult parts, as they step into the future. Her message extended to faculty members, urging them to recognize their impact on students’ lives. She emphasized that education encompasses more than academics, encompassing all aspects of student exper
iences.
In a surprising announcement, Forson revealed her plans to pursue a master’s degree at the university, marking a personal milestone. “Because in a way, this is my graduation too,” she concluded, offering a heartfelt exhortation to graduates to embrace their stories as they move forward.