In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the passing of the late Mr. Samuel Kenneth Aboah, a former member of the University Council, the University of Ghana has officially named the Recreational Quadrangle behind the Balme Library, the 'Samuel Kenneth Aboah Recreational Quadrangle.'
During a brief ceremony, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo acknowledged the achievements of the late Samuel Kenneth Aboah in the various roles he played to enable the University to reach its current level of excellence. In recognition of his numerous contributions to the University of Ghana, Prof. Amfo revealed that, the University Council, in 2019, approved the renaming of the Recreational Quadrangle in his honor.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo
She mentioned that even though she did not get the opportunity to work with the late Mr. Aboah, close affiliates speak highly of him and his commitment to the transformation of UG. She added that, “the University meant a lot to him and he meant a lot to the University as well.”
The Vice-Chancellor noted that Mr. Aboah proved his dedication not only through words, but also through some of his deeds, such as his instrumental role in helping the University obtain a loan that was used to fund the construction of additional residential facilities for the student body, while he was a member of the University Council. He is also credited with the funding and upkeep of the teak plantation along the Vice-Chancellor's crescent leading to the Convocation Group of Buildings.
Some family members of the late Samuel Kenneth Aboah
According to the VC, Mr. Aboah made personal contributions to the building of the Recreational Quadrangle, and the goal of its construction was to create a place where faculty, staff and students could meet and exchange ideas in a spotless setting that promoted both academic and social growth.
In delivering welcome remarks, the Registrar, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah, indicated that the Recreational Quadrangle was commissioned in the year 2007 by former President John Agyekum Kufuor. She further added that the decision to name it after Mr. Samuel Kenneth Aboah was made in recognition of his support towards UG as well as his commitment and numerous acts of generosity.
Registrar, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah
She pointed out that Mr. Aboah's contributions to the University of Ghana have impacted the lives of many people, particularly his decision to sponsor a significant number of students who might otherwise have had to leave school owing to financial difficulties.
The Registrar added that in addition to remembering Mr. Samuel Kenneth Aboah's contributions to the Institution, UG also celebrates his creative thinking and pays tribute to his life and career.
A cross-section of participants at the ceremony
Taking his turn, former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clifford Nii Boi Tagoe recounted that Mr. Samuel Kenneth Aboah who was like a brother to him, had a selfless personality, noting that even though he was not a graduate of the University of Ghana, he gave the institution his all, while serving on the University Council.
Prof. Tagoe reiterated the role Mr. Aboah played in securing loans for the construction of additional hostels in the University and recalled his Chairmanship of the Project Management Committee right from its inception till its completion.
Former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Clifford Nii Boi Tagoe
The former Vice-Chancellor also recalled the pivotal role Mr. Aboah played in helping his administration negotiate with GETFUND to award a sum of Nine Million US Dollars ($9,000,000.00) to refurbish Science Laboratories and provide the then Faculty of Agriculture with experimental greenhouses. The development of the Cedi Conference Centre facility, which was financed by the Bank of Ghana, he said, was also greatly aided by Mr. Aboah.
Mr. Samuel Darko who spoke on behalf of the Aboah Family, thanked the University Council and Management for agreeing to honour Mr. Samuel Kenneth Aboah, by naming the Recreational Quadrangle after him, in commemoration of the 10-year anniversary marking his passing.
Mr. Samuel Darko speaking on behalf of the Aboah family
The family, he said, was grateful for the University's gracious offer, and also expressed gratitude to everyone who attended event.
In the company of his wife, family members, current and former UG officials, the Vice-Chancellor unveiled a plaque constructed at the venue in honor of the late Samuel Kenneth Aboah.
The Ghana Dance Ensemble also displayed the rich Ghanaian culture through their dance performance.
Ghana Dance Ensemble displaying rich Ghanaian culture through their dance performance
Also present at the event were Hon. Elizabeth Ohene, former Minister of State in-charge of Tertiary Education; Prof. Felix A. Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor (RID); Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor (ASA); Professor Daniel Frimpong Ofori, Provost of the College of Humanities; Professor Boateng Onwona-Agyeman, Provost of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences; Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost of the College of Education; Deans; Directors; Past Officials, staff and family members of Mr. Samuel Kenneth Aboah.
The Vice-Chancellor in a group photo with some members of the Aboah family after unveiling the plaque
Management and Staff of Sambus Geospatial, a company founded by the late Mr. S.k. Aboah were also present to witness the ceremony.
