Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah has urged African graduates to move beyond seeking employment and focus on creating businesses, generating jobs and contributing to the continent’s economic development.
Speaking at the maiden convocation of the University of Offa in Kwara State, Nigeria, where he represented President John Dramani Mahama, Dr. Debrah encouraged the Pioneer Class of 2026 to use their education and skills to address the continent’s development challenges.
Addressing the graduates on the theme, “From Certificate to Enterprise: Africa’s Graduates as Architects of the Continent’s Economic Future,” the Chief of Staff said academic certificates should mark the beginning of greater responsibility rather than the end of the learning journey.
He urged the graduates to build businesses, develop African solutions, create employment opportunities and turn the knowledge acquired through education into practical results.
Dr. Debrah also called for stronger cooperation between Ghana and Nigeria, particularly in education, trade, innovation and youth development, stressing the importance of collaboration in advancing opportunities for young people across the continent.
He conveyed President Mahama’s warm greetings to His Royal Majesty, the Olofa of Offa, the university community and the people of Offa, a city that holds a special place in the President’s personal story.
The Chief of Staff congratulated the Pioneer Class of 2026, the management and staff of the University of Offa, as well as the parents and guardians whose sacrifices contributed to the graduates’ success.
He expressed hope that the graduates would use their achievements to create opportunities and become a source of hope for others.
