The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC has donated to the School of Economics at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) during its annual Dean’s Awards Ceremony, held to honour exceptional student performance and staff dedication.

The Dean’s Award ceremony is dedicated to the celebration of students who obtained a Cumulative CGPA of 3.6 and above at levels 200 to 400.

Representing the Bank, the Deputy Managing Director, Prof. Ferdinand Ahiakpor, presented a cheque of GH¢10,000 to the School of Economics to support its academic and development initiatives.

In addition to the institutional donation, the Deputy Managing Director in charge of Services, Prof. Ahiakpor, made a personal donation of GH¢S5,000 to further assist the School in its developmental pursuits.

He also awarded GH¢3,000 to outstanding individuals: the Best Female Student in Level 300, who achieved an exceptional CGPA of 3.9, the Overall Best Academic Student and the Best Non-Academic Staff.

Speaking at the recently held awards ceremony, Prof. Ahiakpor noted that ADB recognised the vital role universities play in shaping future economic leaders, and it was incumbent on corporate institutions to complement those efforts.

“At ADB, we understand that today’s students are tomorrow’s economists, policymakers, and business leaders. We are proud to support UCC, which consistently produces high-achieving graduates who are ready to make meaningful contributions to our economy,” Prof. Ahiakpor said.

Prof. Ahiakpor lauded the awardees for their dedication to excellence, urging them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to the pursuit of knowledge.

“You are not just here to pass exams. You are here to challenge ideas, find solutions, and lead change. Let your success here be a stepping stone to national development,” he told the awardees.

Prof. Ahiakpor emphasised the need for stronger synergy between academia and industry, pointing out that such collaboration is essential in addressing real-world challenges and fostering innovation.

“When academia works hand in hand with industry, we build a generation of graduates who are not just employable but capable of creating long-lasting solutions,” he said.

The Dean of the School of Economics, Prof. James Attah Peprah, commended the exceptional students being honoured. He also commended the faculty and its staff for their tireless efforts in shaping academic excellence in the School.

Prof. James Attah expressed his delight at the Dean's Award ceremony, which has become a vital part of the school's academic calendar that celebrates commitment, discipline, and scholarly distinction.

In all, 15 Level 200 students, 8 Level 300 and 9 Level 400 students were awarded at the event.  ADB-branded gift sets were also presented to the awardees.