CHRAJ Urges Institutional Integrity to Sustain Leadership Excellence

Accra: The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has called for institutional integrity, accountability, and inclusion as essential pillars of sustainable leadership. Dr. Joseph Whittal, Commissioner of CHRAJ, emphasized that competence without integrity poses a risk to institutions, noting that accountability strengthens ambition rather than weakens it. He delivered these remarks during the keynote address at the 2026 graduation ceremony of Nobel International Business (NiBS) University in Accra. According to Ghana News Agency, the University celebrated the graduation of 28 students from its various advanced programs, including the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Business Leadership (DBL), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Master of Financial Management (MFM), and Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA). The ceremony was themed 'Excellence Beyond Borders: Preparing Leaders for a Changing World.' Dr. Whittal, drawing from his experience at CHRAJ, pointed out t hat many institutional failures stem not from a lack of competence but from ethical compromises. He cautioned that 'competence without integrity is a liability, not an asset,' and urged the graduates to uphold ethical standards as they step into leadership roles. He advocated for transparency, scrutiny, and inclusive institutions, highlighting that organizations that broaden participation across gender, geography, and generations tend to perform better. The Commissioner noted that graduates are entering a rapidly evolving world influenced by artificial intelligence, climate change, and shifting global dynamics, where institutional trust is increasingly valuable. He encouraged them to blend technical knowledge with sound judgment and strong character, advising: 'Go beyond the borders that others will try to place around your ambition.' Dr. George Nana Agyekum Donkor, Chancellor of NiBS University, emphasized that excellence should extend beyond academic achievement to encompass innovation, resilience, ethica l leadership, and lifelong learning. He announced plans to establish the Alumni Club 100 and a Research and Infrastructure Fund aimed at mobilizing resources for research, infrastructure development, and the University's long-term growth. Mr. Martin Kwame Awagah, President of the Ghana FinTech and Payments Association, remarked that higher education institutions must continuously adapt to the demands of the digital economy. He observed that technologies such as artificial intelligence, data science, and digital finance are reshaping industries and encouraged graduates to embrace lifelong learning, innovation, and the ethical use of technology. Mr. Awagah also noted that Africa's burgeoning digital economy offers significant opportunities for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and innovators to advance financial inclusion and economic development.