The Lebanese Ambassador, the Rector, other dignitaries and the students in a pose after the presentation
The newly appointed Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana – Maher Kheir – has urged students of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) to aspire for greater heights in the academia.
He admonished the 19 beneficiaries of this year’s scholarship to move away from the popular saying: ‘The sky is the limit’ and rather embrace the saying: ‘The sky is just your starting point.’
In a well organised ceremony at its campus in Accra yesterday, 19 outstanding students-15 undergraduate and five post graduate students were awarded scholarships.
His Excellency Maher Kheir told the beneficiaries: “These students have excelled in their academic work and l must congratulate you on earning a place on our scheme. I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity. Nothing is guaranteed unless you work towards it; so continue to work hard in order to merit future rewards.”
He added: “My predecessor together with the Lebanese community planted a seed six years ago to reward the hard work of students in various tertiary institutions across the country. The scholarship programme has indeed been very successful. The Lebanese community is extremely proud of our students’ achievements, some of whom have graduated to become journalists, lawyers, bank executives, public relations practitioners, among others. I am happy to continue the legacy of my predecessor and drive the vision of the Lebanese community. The sky is just your starting point.”
Commending the Lebanese community, the Rector of GIJ, Professor Kwamena Kwansah-Aidoo, said: “The work of the Lebanese community is commendable. We value this fantastic relationship. If every high commission decides to support a student or two, you can imagine what will happen. I want to encourage you to study harder; we thank the Lebanese community for this gesture.”
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Juliana Odamea expressed gratitude to the Lebanese community for the gesture.
By Kofi Aduonum