The Department of Philosophy and Classics, together with University Management and academic fellows from the international community, has held a memorial service for the late Professor Kwasi Wiredu, the man who is widely celebrated as a pioneer in African Philosophy.
Prof. Hasskei Mohammed Majeed, Head, Department of Philosophy and Classics, in his welcome address, extended appreciation to the audience present onsite and online. He noted that the memorial service was in honour of Emeritus Prof. Kwasi Wiredu as a former head of the then Department of Philosophy and a celebration of his works. Prof. Majeed described Emeritus Prof. Kwasi Wiredu as a ‘gift to the world’.
Reading a tribute on behalf of the University of Ghana, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Development, Professor Felix Ankomah Asante stated that the University of Ghana is proud of its alumnus, for the diligent services he rendered to the University and commended him for his commitment in promoting African philosophy.
“In his academic life, Emeritus Professor Wiredu was committed to the African philosophy as a formidable alternative that had the intellectual resources to contribute to the resolution of human existential problems. This informed his dexterous exploration of philosophical themes in Akan though in a manner that consistently influenced academic debate in Africa and beyond,” Prof. Ankomah Asante said.
In paying tribute to the late Emeritus Prof. Wiredu on behalf of the family, Dr. Akua Dwamena Wiredu and Mr. Agyenim Hiatwerebour Wiredu, expressed appreciation to the University of Ghana for honouring their father. She reminisced fond memories they shared with him. ‘The love he had for us was felt so deeply that there was no need to say it. It was understood, he showed us he loved us by his actions so let’s all be about showing each other love’, Mr. Agyenim Wiredu remarked.
Other tributes were read by Prof. Dismas Masolo, University of Louisville; Prof. Uchenna Okeja, Rhodes University and Prof. Katrin Flikschuin, London School of Economics.
Prof. Martin Odei Ajei, explained Emeritus Professor Wiredu’s concept of Humanism during the ceremony. He noted that Prof. Wiredu taught how human interest is the basis of all values and human fellowship as the most important human need. ‘Emeritus Prof. Wiredu did not only theorize humanism, he also lived it’, said Prof. Ajei.
Giving the vote of thanks, Prof. Emmanuel Ackah conveyed the University and Department’s appreciation for the love, support, and participation in the service. He expressed appreciation to all for a befitting remembrance of a global celebrated African scholar.
Gramophone Chorus rendered hymns at the Service.
