Napo being decorated at the ceremony
THE UNIVERSITY of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has honoured the Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh aka ‘Napo’, with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (DHL) for his significant contributions to the promotion of quality education in the country.
In a citation, the UPSA at its 13th congregation, catalogued the exceptional leadership qualities and the enormous roles that Napo played when he served as the Education Minister, which led to the successful implementation of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy and other positive initiatives.
The colourful programme, which was held on Saturday, was attended by several top dignitaries, including Vice President Dr. Alhaji Mahamadu Bawumia, the Otumfuo Apagyahene, Oheneba Owusu Afriyie, Kumasi Urban Roads Director, Ing. Nana Poku Agyeman, traditional leaders and a host of others.
Bawumia Praise
Dr. Bawumia, in his address, stated that indeed Napo deserved to be honoured by the UPSA due to the significant impact during his four-year stay in the Education Ministry.
“I am happy today because this university is honouring the hardworking former Minister of Education, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, who executed the Free Senior High School (FSHS) programme with distinction,” the Vice President stated, attracting wild applause.
Dr. Bawumia said Napo’s extraordinary works in the education sector resulted in world bodies like the United Nations, honouring him, reiterating that it was in the right direction that UPSA has also recognised Napo’s positive works.
“Today’s award shows the high regard that people have for Napo, especially due to his roles in promoting quality education in our country,” the Vice President indicated, adding, “Government has initiated the free WiFi Project to provide WiFi connectivity to 722 public Senior High Schools (SHS), 46 Colleges of Education, 16 Regional Offices, 260 District Offices of Education and so far 13 Public Universities have joined and this is part of the work output of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh.
Napo’s Remarks
Napo, who was receiving a second doctorate degree in just two months after he was honoured by the University College of Education, Winneba, in May 2021, said his numerous successes in the education sector within a short time was the work of God, his Maker and the support from his loyal staff.
He also highly commended President Akufo-Addo, who gave him the chance to serve his country as Education Minister in his government, stressing that the numerous accolades that he has been receiving lately, would spur him on to sustain his extraordinary works for his motherland.
By I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr