In his address during the 48th Graduation Ceremony of Christian Service University (CSU), Vice Chancellor Professor Samuel Kofi Afrane imparted crucial advice to the 2024 graduating class. He emphasized the importance of creativity and the need for graduates to uphold the moral and ethical values cultivated during their time at the university. He urged the students to not only serve as ambassadors for CSU but also to positively impact their communities by “brightening the corner” wherever they go. Professor Afrane reminded the graduates that the true value lies not in the certificate they receive but in how they choose to employ the education they have gained. This sentiment reflects a core philosophy at CSU: that education is a tool for personal and societal transformation.
The graduation ceremony held in Kumasi was particularly significant, marking the conclusion of CSU’s 50th year of existence. It also celebrated the achievement of students who had completed their studies under the mentorship of reputable affiliate institutions like the University of Ghana, University of Cape Coast, and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Professor Afrane noted that this event symbolizes a pivotal moment in the university’s history as it transitions into a fully accredited institution, now set to award degrees, diplomas, and certificates starting in the next academic year. This move positions CSU as an independent entity committed to delivering quality education and serving the needs of its students.
Professor Afrane conveyed gratitude towards the affiliate institutions for their invaluable support, recognizing that CSU’s development is deeply rooted in collaboration and mentorship. He expressed optimism about future partnerships, highlighting that there remains much to learn and achieve alongside these established universities. This collaboration is vital as CSU strives to enhance its academic offerings and strengthen its position in Ghana’s educational landscape. The Vice Chancellor’s words underscored the university’s commitment to continuous growth and adaptation in an ever-evolving academic environment.
A point of pride for CSU, noted by Professor Afrane, was the institution’s significant advances in research. He reported an impressive total of forty-nine publications in the 2024/2025 academic year, including five books, a feat attributed to the implementation of a publication allowance for academic staff. This initiative reflects CSU’s dedication to fostering a vibrant research culture, which not only benefits faculty members but also enriches the academic environment for students. The achievements of five faculty members who recently completed their doctoral studies further underline the university’s commitment to academic excellence and the professional development of its staff.
The graduation ceremony saw a total of 476 students awarded degrees, diplomas, and certificates. This graduating cohort comprised 236 undergraduates (50%), 214 postgraduates (45%), and 26 diploma recipients (5%). CSU currently offers a diverse range of programs, with 11 undergraduate and 9 postgraduate courses available to students. New academic offerings, including a Master of Arts in Events Management, Digital Marketing, and Cybersecurity, highlight CSU’s responsiveness to industry trends and its aim to equip graduates with relevant skills for today’s job market. Looking ahead, the university plans to introduce additional programs in Investments and Financial Risk Management, as well as expand its doctoral offerings, indicating a robust approach to academic development.
As CSU celebrates this milestone and transitions into its new role as a degree-awarding institution, the Vice Chancellor’s message serves as a guiding principle for the graduating class. Emphasizing personal responsibility and a commitment to using one’s education for the greater good, Professor Afrane encapsulated the essence of the university’s mission. By encouraging graduates to take initiative in their respective fields and serve their communities, he instilled a sense of empowerment and purpose that extends beyond academic achievements. This celebration of success at CSU not only marks the end of an educational journey for these graduates but also paves the way for their future contributions to society and the nation at large, reflecting the university’s enduring legacy and commitment to positive change.
