President John Dramani Mahama has reflected upon Russia’s significant contribution to the training and development of numerous African leaders. He has stated that the distinction conferred upon him by Russia’s Peoples’ Friendship University (RUDN University) serves as an encouragement for him to collaborate with his counterparts in reshaping Africa’s narrative and its standing on the international stage.
According to President Mahama, contemporary African leaders bear the responsibility of translating this aspiration into concrete action and measurable outcomes.
He emphasized that this responsibility must be demonstrated through the establishment of quality educational institutions, the development of robust institutional frameworks, and the creation of meaningful opportunities for the youth population.
“This endeavor further necessitates that we address the historical wrongs perpetrated against people of African descent throughout centuries of colonial rule and the transatlantic slave trade, and that we advance justice through thoughtful dialogue and collaborative international efforts,” he stated.
President Mahama has received an honorary doctorate from RUDN University in acknowledgment of his dedication to broadening educational access and strengthening educational and scientific research cooperation between Ghana and Russia.
The institution recognized Ghana’s initiatives aimed at ensuring equitable educational opportunities, including the No Fee Stress initiative that has benefited more than 152,000 first-year students enrolled in public universities, as well as the provision of tuition-free higher education for students with disabilities.
The university also recognized President Mahama’s personal academic background in Russia, where he completed his postgraduate studies, and the established educational partnerships that exist between Ghana and RUDN University.
“You demonstrate exceptional commitment to the advancement of Russian-Ghanaian scientific and educational partnerships,” stated Oleg A. Yastrebov, Rector of the university, further noting that President Mahama’s exemplary leadership and policy initiatives are facilitating greater access and fostering the transformation of Ghana’s human capital for future advancement.
Throughout your inaugural presidential administration, Ghana successfully attained gender equilibrium in elementary education. Currently, the nation remains dedicated to broadening educational accessibility.
The implemented assistance initiative has extended support to over 152,000 first-year undergraduates enrolled at state-funded universities, while complimentary tertiary education has been made accessible to learners with disabilities.
These initiatives reflect a dedication to fostering equitable prospects and cultivating human capabilities, principles that align with RUDN University’s mission and strengthen the partnership between our respective nations,” he stated.
During his acceptance remarks, President Mahama expressed: “I receive this distinction with modesty and with an enhanced commitment to serve my nation and the international community and to advance mutual comprehension among our societies.”
