Hundreds of staff, students, family members, friends and members of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana gathered at the main auditorium of Sunyani Technical University (STU) last Friday to bid an emotional farewell to the University’s outgoing Registrar, Mr. Samuel Ankama Obour, who has retired from public service after 29 years of dedicated service to the institution.
The colourful ceremony brought together members of the University community, religious leaders and dignitaries who paid glowing tribute to Mr. Obour’s exemplary leadership, professionalism and commitment to the growth of the institution from its days as a polytechnic to its current status as a technical university.
The atmosphere became even more exciting when Ghana’s Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt and former Pro-Vice Chancellor of STU, Prof. Justice Solomon Korantwi-Barimah, made a surprise appearance, drawing loud applause from the audience.
Among the dignitaries present were the Chairman of the STU Governing Council, Prof. Samuel Awuah-Nyamekye; the Vice-Chancellor, Ing. Prof. Kwadwo Adinkrah-Appiah; the Acting Pro-Vice Chancellor, Architect Prof. Evans Zoya Kpamma; the Director of Finance, Mr Thomas Kwarfo; the Chairperson of the Brong Ahafo Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, as well as ministers from the Presbyterian Church and other Christian denominations.
Speakers described Mr. Obour as a disciplined, hardworking, meticulous and time-conscious administrator whose humility, fairness, humour and welcoming nature endeared him to staff, students and stakeholders alike. They also praised his mentorship and invaluable contribution to the University’s administrative development over nearly three decades.
Farewell message
In his farewell address, Mr. Obour reflected on his journey with the institution, recounting his experiences from the polytechnic era through its transition into a technical university. He urged staff to uphold truthfulness, humility and selfless service in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“Whatever you do, do it with all humility, devoid of arrogance. Live with one another in unity, love and selfless service,” he advised.
Expressing confidence in the future of the University’s administration, Mr. Obour said he had no doubt that his successor, Mr. Stephen Yeboah, would excel, having been adequately prepared for the role.
He also used the occasion to apologise to anyone he might have offended in the course of performing his official duties and expressed appreciation to the Governing Council, Management and the entire University community for the support they accorded him throughout his career.
Mr. Obour reserved special gratitude for his wife, thanking her for her unwavering love, prayers and steadfast support throughout his years of service.
