Samuel A. Issifu, known by his artistic alias Kearls The Poet, has achieved a significant milestone by being elected as the 32nd General Secretary of the Federation of Ghana Medical Students’ Associations (FGMSA) during the 31st FGMSA Annual General Congress at the University of Cape Coast. This achievement is not just a testament to his leadership skills but also highlights his multifaceted identity as a medical student and a literary talent. As a Level 300 student from the University for Development Studies (UDS), Kearls has continuously demonstrated that it is possible to excel in both the sciences of medicine and the creative arts. His accomplishments as a poet, particularly recognized with awards such as the Spoken-Word Artiste of the Year at the 8th Northern Ghana Entertainment Awards, alongside his thought-provoking poetry addressing social issues, showcase a unique integration of artistry within his professional aspirations.
Kearls’ journey to this leadership role is underscored by years of dedicated service and a proven track record of effective leadership. Before his election as General Secretary, he served as the Organizer and head of the Organizing Committee for the UDS Medical Students’ Association, where he orchestrated impactful initiatives aimed at fostering community and bridging connections among medical students. His experiences illustrate a commitment to blending vision with action, proving that true leadership extends beyond mere titles and is rooted in the ability to inspire change and facilitate collaboration among peers.
The competition he faced during the election was tough, particularly against Appiah Lordia Konadu, a Level 500 student from UCC. The election process, marked by a rigorous vetting system, saw Kearls initially trailing his opponent. However, he ultimately secured a resounding victory, garnering 59 out of 91 total votes, which is 64.8% of the votes cast. This outcome not only validated his leadership capabilities but also marked a significant moment in FGMSA history, as he became the second successive General Secretary hailing from UDS, illustrating the institution’s growing influence in student leadership within Ghana’s medical community.
The FGMSA serves as the leading organization for medical students across Ghana, encompassing seven member schools, including UG, UCC, KNUST, UHAS, UDS, ACM, and FHUC. It aims to facilitate collaboration, leadership development, and advocacy among medical students. The annual elections held during the General Congress require candidates to possess not only academic excellence but also the ability to inspire and effectively mobilize their peers. Kearls’ successful campaign speaks to his ability to engage with a broad base of students, showcasing his commitment to fostering a united medical student body under a collaborative framework.
Central to Kearls’ campaign was the PEN Agenda—an ambitious vision encapsulating his leadership philosophy centered on Progress, Empowerment, and Network. This agenda reflects his dedication to improving student welfare, engaging in impactful dialogues with various stakeholders, and nurturing the next generation of medical professionals. His approach combines a fresh perspective on leadership that seeks to champion inclusivity, responsiveness, and transformative practices, poised to address the pressing concerns of medical students while simultaneously inspiring innovative thinkers to lead the future of healthcare.
As Kearls transitions into his role as General Secretary, he symbolizes a new era in student leadership where artistry and leadership converge rather than conflict. His journey from a celebrated poet to the forefront of medical student governance exemplifies that true leadership is not merely a result of privilege or circumstance, but rather a product of determination, passion, and a steadfast commitment to serve. As he embarks on this new chapter, the expectations for his contributions are high—not only from the medical student community but also from a wider audience inspired by his narrative of overcoming barriers. With his unique blend of creativity and strategic vision, Kearls is positioned to redefine the landscape of medical student leadership in Ghana, paving the way for a future that embraces both service and artistic expression.
