The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has conferred a posthumous honorary doctorate on former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in recognition of her dedicated service to Ghana.

The university also awarded honorary doctorates to Professor Joshua Alabi, a former vice-chancellor of UPSA, and Joseph K. Horgle, founder and executive chairman of J.K. Horgle Transport and Company Limited, for their outstanding contributions to academia and industry.

The honours were bestowed during the fifth session of UPSA’s 17th Congregation, held at the university’s main campus in Accra.

The ceremony additionally marked the graduation of postgraduate students from the School of Graduate Studies, including recipients of Doctor of Philosophy and master’s degrees.

Programmes awarded included the PhD in Marketing; MPhil in Accounting, Finance, and Leadership; MSc in Procurement Management; MSc in Leadership and Organisational Development; MA in Peace, Security, and Intelligence Management; MA in Brands and Communications Management; and MA in Digital and Strategic Marketing Management.

Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Professor Alabi described the recognition as a celebration of their collective journey as scholars, contributors, and nation-builders.

“This recognition is not merely an award; it symbolises a collective story of faith, resilience, and transformation,” he said.

He encouraged the public to demonstrate patriotism and a commitment to excellence in serving humanity, and urged students to remain diligent and persistent even in challenging circumstances.

Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, praised the honourees for their commitment to national development, describing their achievements as exemplary and a source of inspiration to younger generations.

He encouraged the graduating students to emulate the honourees’ dedication and strive for excellence in their own paths.

“Your future may not unfold exactly as planned. You may not begin where you dream to be, but whatever opportunity comes your way, seize it with grace, humility and excellence,” he said.