The Private Universities Students Association of Ghana (PUSAG) has publicly lauded the Ministry of Education for its decisive action in resolving a critical financial impasse with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). This impasse stemmed from unpaid fees owed to WAEC, which consequently delayed the release of the West African Senior Secondary Certificate Exams (WASSCE) results for students who sat for the August/September examinations. This delay understandably caused significant anxiety amongst the affected students, their families, and educational stakeholders who rely on the timely release of these results for academic progression and other critical decisions. The Ministry of Education’s intervention, which involved the disbursement of the necessary funds to settle the outstanding balance with WAEC, effectively unlocked the process for the release of the results, thus alleviating the widespread concerns. PUSAG President, Ibrahim Issah, expressed the association’s gratitude to the Education Minister for recognizing the urgency of the situation and taking swift action to resolve it, emphasizing the positive impact this resolution has had on students and the broader educational landscape.
Beyond acknowledging the Ministry of Education’s prompt resolution, PUSAG also took the opportunity to announce its upcoming awards ceremony, aimed at recognizing and celebrating individuals whose contributions have significantly uplifted underprivileged members of society, with a particular focus on supporting students. This initiative underscores PUSAG’s commitment to highlighting not just academic achievements but also the crucial role of philanthropy and social responsibility in national development. The association has identified two distinguished personalities for this year’s awards: businessman Ibrahim Mahama, CEO of Engineers and Planners and owner of Dzata Cement, and renowned actress and talk show host Nana Ama McBrown. The selection of these two individuals speaks to the diverse fields through which impactful contributions can be made, highlighting the importance of both entrepreneurial success and the influence of media personalities in driving positive social change. The awards ceremony, scheduled for the following weekend, promises to be a significant event, showcasing the power of individual action in transforming lives and inspiring others to contribute to the betterment of society.
The citation prepared for Ibrahim Mahama underscores his extensive philanthropic endeavors, which have provided crucial support for vulnerable populations in Ghana. He is recognized for his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the needy through numerous acts of kindness, which have earned him both national and international acclaim. His efforts have not only alleviated immediate hardships but also provided opportunities for long-term growth and empowerment. The citation highlights the transformative impact of his work, offering hope and a chance at a better future for countless individuals who may have otherwise been left behind. It acknowledges his role as a model philanthropist, demonstrating the positive impact that individuals with significant resources can have on society when they choose to invest in the well-being of others.
Similarly, the citation for Nana Ama McBrown acknowledges her significant influence as a celebrated actress and a highly respected talk show host. Her success in the entertainment industry serves as an inspiration, particularly for young women, demonstrating the possibility of achieving goals previously perceived as unattainable. Her career trajectory has shattered traditional barriers and opened up new avenues for female representation in media and entertainment. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Nana Ama McBrown is also commended for her substantial contributions to various charitable causes, bringing much-needed hope and support to individuals across Ghana. Her commitment to giving back to society, coupled with her influential platform, amplifies the message of compassion and encourages others to contribute to the collective good.
The combination of these two awardees represents a powerful message about the multifaceted nature of social impact. Ibrahim Mahama’s contributions through business and philanthropy demonstrate the potential for economic success to translate into significant social upliftment. Nana Ama McBrown’s influence as a media personality highlights the power of communication and representation to inspire positive change and bring attention to critical social issues. By honoring these two individuals, PUSAG seeks to inspire a broader culture of philanthropy and social responsibility, encouraging others to contribute their talents and resources to improving the lives of their fellow citizens.
PUSAG’s decision to honor these individuals is the culmination of over a decade of observation and assessment of their respective contributions. This long-term monitoring underscores the association’s commitment to recognizing sustained and impactful philanthropy, rather than isolated acts of charity. By publicly acknowledging the exceptional efforts of Ibrahim Mahama and Nana Ama McBrown, PUSAG aims to not only celebrate their accomplishments but also to inspire others to emulate their commitment to social good. This recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of individual action and the profound impact that can be achieved through sustained dedication to the betterment of society. It further reinforces the message that contributing to the well-being of the community is not solely the responsibility of government or large organizations, but a collective responsibility shared by all members of society, irrespective of their background or profession.
