On November 22, 2024, the Elohim Theological College and Seminary, affiliated with the Apostolic University (USA), honored Mr. Maxwell Palasco Boakye with an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. This prestigious recognition was granted in acknowledgment of Dr. Boakye’s considerable and lasting contributions to humanity and society. The award ceremony took place at Selikus Hotel in Wasa Akropong, a town in Ghana’s Amenfi East Municipality, where Dr. Kwame Aburam Anoff Senior, the institution’s president, presented the honorary degree. This recognition was further highlighted through the presentation of a doctorate gown, a citation, and a medal, symbolizing Dr. Boakye’s philanthropic efforts and unwavering support for those in need.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Boakye expressed immense gratitude towards Elohim Theological College, emphasizing his commitment to promoting education and development across Ghana. He acknowledged the honor as a reflection of not only his individual efforts but also the collective contributions of many who have worked tirelessly for the betterment of society. He dedicated this honor to his late mother, Agnes Appiah, recognizing the foundational role she played in his life. Dr. Boakye underscored the importance of humility, acknowledging the academic community and mentors that have influenced his journey.
Dr. Boakye’s acknowledgment of the honor extended beyond personal achievement; he regarded it as a motivation for the younger generation. He encouraged youth not to abandon their dreams, expressing hope that his recognition would inspire others to contribute positively to their communities and pursue excellence in their endeavors. This message of perseverance resonated as Dr. Boakye highlighted that recognition also comes from the efforts of many, which serves as an encouragement to those striving for change.
Dr. Kwame Aburam Anoff, during the conferral of the honorary degree, articulated the institution’s commitment to honoring living individuals rather than bestowing posthumous accolades. He explained that the institution relies on a comprehensive monitoring system to identify deserving candidates through trusted representatives within Districts, Municipalities, and Regions. This rigorous approach underscores the institution’s dedication to recognizing genuine contributions without the influence of monetary power, establishing a clear distinction between deserving service and superficial honors.
The conferral of the honorary degree not only celebrated Dr. Boakye’s achievements but also aligned with the college’s ethos of recognizing impactful individuals who might otherwise go unnoticed. This system of assessment and recommendation is designed to safeguard the integrity of the honor, ensuring that those recognized have truly made significant contributions to society. The ceremony thus served as a platform to both celebrate individual achievement and reinforce the collective responsibility of citizens towards societal development.
Ultimately, this event was not only a tribute to Dr. Maxwell Palasco Boakye’s work but a broader recognition of the role of education, philanthropy, and integrity in societal growth. Dr. Boakye’s reflections on his journey and his aspirations for the youth underline the importance of community engagement and personal development. His story, alongside the institution’s commitment to honorable recognition, illustrates a hopeful narrative for future generations, encouraging them to forge paths that contribute positively to the fabric of society while uplifting one another.
