President Mahama Pledges UGMC Transfer to University of Ghana as Chief of Staff Julius Debrah Earns PhD

President John Dramani Mahama has officially assured the University of Ghana (UG) that the management of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) will be transferred from the Ministry of Health to the university. Speaking at the 2nd Session of the July Congregation, the President emphasized that this move is intended to empower the institution to better integrate clinical services with its academic and research mandates. During the ceremony, which saw the graduation of 1,884 students, President Mahama also reiterated his administration's commitment to the ‘No-Fee-Stress’ initiative, designed to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to higher education for Ghanaian youth.

A significant highlight of the event was the graduation of the President’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who earned a PhD in Museum and Heritage Studies. President Mahama praised Dr. Debrah for his remarkable dedication, noting that balancing the rigors of a high-profile public service role with intensive doctoral research is a testament to diligence and discipline. The President shared lighthearted anecdotes from their time on the campaign trail, using the Chief of Staff’s achievement to illustrate the importance of lifelong learning and the government’s focus on enhancing research as a catalyst for national development.

Reflecting on his own academic journey, President Mahama shared a personal story about his formative years at the University of Ghana’s Commonwealth Hall. He revealed that he was once a ‘very shy’ student, but credited his time at the hall for shaping his personality and providing him with the confidence required for public speaking and leadership. This humanizing reflection resonated with the graduates, as the President urged them to allow the university environment to transform them into bold contributors to society.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo addressed the congregation by highlighting the university’s continued excellence in the QS World University Rankings. She detailed ongoing efforts to expand digital access through the ‘One Student, One Laptop’ initiative and noted that 1,358 scholarships were awarded during the academic year to support brilliant but needy students. The Vice-Chancellor also pointed to the university's updated Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Policy as part of a commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment.

In her closing remarks, Professor Amfo urged the new alumni to uphold the values of integrity and service in their professional lives. The ceremony also recognized individual academic brilliance, with Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Mujib being honored as the overall best graduating student. As these graduates transition into the workforce, the government’s pledge to return the UGMC to the university marks a pivotal step in strengthening the nexus between healthcare delivery and academic research in Ghana.