Accra: Graduates of the University of Ghana have been urged to regard their degrees as a responsibility to serve society and create lasting impact. Mrs. Mabel Nana Nyarkoa Porbley, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Sanlam Allianz General Insurance Ghana Limited, made the call as Guest Speaker at the University's February 2026 Congregation. She was addressing the second batch of graduands, comprising Master's students from the School of Graduate Studies.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Porbley emphasized that graduates are joining a proud tradition of University of Ghana alumni who are making significant contributions to Ghana, Africa, and the world. She highlighted the diverse paths graduates might take, including leading corporations, pioneering research, serving in public office, or transforming communities quietly. She reminded them that their degrees represent a responsibility to use their knowledge positively, uplift others, and leave a lasting impact.
Mrs. Porbley encouraged graduates to build steadily from their current stage in life, lead beyond titles, and value integrity as a personal brand. She stressed the importance of embracing collaboration over competition and viewing uncertainty as an opportunity for innovation. Sharing her own career transition into the insurance industry without prior experience, she highlighted the importance of continuous learning, teamwork, and systems building.
She urged the graduates to take responsibility for their choices, seek mentorship, cultivate reliability, and remain resilient in the face of setbacks. She also called on them to stay curious, show gratitude, remain united, and contribute to building a nation rooted in strength, dignity, shared purpose, and opportunities. This, she emphasized, would lay the foundation for a society built on love and national pride, creating a legacy for future generations.
Mrs. Porbley encouraged the graduates to contemplate their personal growth and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and continuous questioning to discover evolving answers. She concluded by urging them to embrace the journey of self-discovery as they step out into the world.
Mr. Prince Collins Darko, Valedictorian and Master of Philosophy in Archaeology and Heritage Studies graduate, extolled the values of determination, perseverance, consistency, integrity, humility, and gratitude as key to his success. He reminded fellow graduands that graduation marks the beginning of greater responsibility and service to the nation, urging them to pursue their careers with commitment and confidence.
Professor Gordon Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs, commended the graduands for their academic achievements and encouraged them to serve as worthy ambassadors of the University of Ghana in the wider world.