The College of Education at the University of Ghana, reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity during the just ended February 2025 congregation ceremonies, shining a spotlight on three distinguished guest speakers whose work and experiences exemplify perseverance and advocacy in the disability community.

The ceremony featured two visually impaired personalities; Mrs. Gertrude Oforiwa Fefoame, an internationally recognised disability and gender advocate; Dr. Albert Frimpong, a seasoned legal professional and public servant. Joining them was Mrs. Ellen Affam-Dadzie, the CEO and Executive Director of With God Cerebral Palsy Ghana, an NGO dedicated to improving the lives of children with cerebral palsy.

Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost of the College of Education

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Public Affairs Office of the College, Provost of the College of Education, Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, stressed the importance of using such a prestigious platform to highlight the achievements of persons with disabilities.

“As a College and as a University, we are committed to fostering inclusion. By celebrating high-achieving individuals with disabilities, we aim to inspire others and demonstrate that with perseverance and determination, anyone can achieve their aspirations,” he stated. “We also seek to encourage parents, reassuring them that children with disabilities can thrive and realise their dreams with the right support.”

Honouring Exceptional Achievements

Mrs. Gertrude Oforiwa Fefoame

Mrs. Gertrude Oforiwa Fefoame, the current Chair of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), made history as the first African woman to hold this prestigious role. As the Global Advocacy Manager at Sightsavers, she has led numerous initiatives on social inclusion. Her distinguished career spans over four decades, during which she has held influential positions at local, national, and global levels. Her contributions to disability rights have been recognised with multiple accolades, including the inaugural Women’s Empowerment Award from the World Blind Union in 2021 and Ghana’s prestigious Grand Medal in 2007.

Dr. Albert Frimpong

Dr. Albert Frimpong, a State Attorney at Ghana’s Office of the Attorney General, is a distinguished expert in public administration, law, and policy development. Holding a PhD in Public Administration, Policy and Management, alongside an LLM in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Ghana, he has been instrumental in shaping Ghana’s legal collaboration with the United Nations on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). His steadfast commitment to social justice extends beyond his profession, reflected in his personal life as a father of nine, including six adopted children.

Mrs. Ellen Affam-Dadzie

Mrs. Ellen Affam-Dadzie, a social worker, special educator and counsellor, is the CEO of With God Cerebral Palsy Ghana, a pioneering NGO dedicated to empowering the disability community. Earning a first-class honours degree in Bachelor of Science at the age of 40, exemplifying her perseverance and determination. She is now pursuing an MPhil in Special Education at UEW, where she has made notable contributions. Notably, she was the first student to initiate training on Appropriate Paper-Based Technology (APT) - innovative, cost-effective assistive devices made from paper - for Level 200 students in the department's rehabilitation units. 

Driven by personal experience as a mother to a daughter with cerebral palsy, Mrs. Affam-Dadzie remains committed to fostering inclusion and transforming lives.

Final Comments by Provost

Reflecting on the success of the congregation ceremonies, Professor Codjoe expressed his satisfaction in seeing the College's objective materialise. “It has been truly fulfilling to witness this objective come to life,” he said, extending his appreciation to Mrs. Fefoame, Dr. Frimpong and Mrs. Affam-Dadzie for their invaluable contributions.

By showcasing these trailblazing individuals, the College of Education has reinforced its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, ensuring that the University of Ghana remains an inspiration for all.