During the 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service of the University of Ghana, President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasized the pivotal role played by Joseph Boakye Danquah, a former presidential candidate in 1960, in the university’s establishment.
In his speech, President Akufo-Addo conveyed his strong belief that history will remember JB Danquah favourably for his dedicated efforts in advocating for the creation of the university.
The President highlighted how Joseph Boakye Danquah’s unwavering commitment to securing Ghana’s own university ultimately led to the founding of the University of Ghana.
Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo pointed out that Danquah’s visionary pursuits extended to challenging the British recommendation for a sole university in West Africa, which was intended for Nigeria.
Instead, he rallied Ghanaians to support the establishment of their own educational institution.
The President also remarked that, considering the historical importance of Danquah’s contributions, the legacy of Joseph Boakye Danquah might even merit consideration for naming the University of Ghana after him.
He mentioned, “Indeed, in many other jurisdictions where there is less heat in their politics and more attachment to the facts of historical record, it would not have been out of place to have this university named after him. Who knows, one day it may well happen.”
President Akufo-Addo commended the University of Ghana for reaching its diamond jubilee and lauded its role in shaping the nation’s development.
“It will be wholly appropriate and not at all far-fetched to describe Joseph Boakye Danquah as the founder of this university [the University of Ghana], a fact that, on the 75th anniversary of its existence, should be vividly recalled by all of us who are being and are the beneficiaries of his work,” he said.
The President’s sentiment mirrored his previous comments made five years ago when the university initiated an endowment fund during its 70th-anniversary celebration.