In its decade of existence in academic excellence and progress in educating compassionate entrepreneurial leaders, Heritage Christian University as part of its tenth anniversary celebration organized a Public Dialogue with a distinct focus on national identity. The dialogue was under the theme “Upholding Our Heritage Won for Us: Red, Gold, Green.” This event brought together high-profile state men and woman to discuss the pressing state of the nation. The primary goal was to provide the public with deep insight into the heritage of Ghana while marking a decade of academic excellence. A demonstration of serious commitment to substantive issues affecting the country.
A Panel of Distinguished Voices
Bernard Avle, General Manager of Channel One TV/Citi FM and host of the Citi Breakfast show, moderated the session. He guided a panel that included former Chief Justice of Ghana, Her Ladyship Sophia Akuffo, former Ghana High Commissioner to UK and Ambassador to Ireland, Ambassador Isaac Osei, and Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines. This mix of law, diplomacy, and industry allowed for a broad range of perspectives on the state of the nation. The audience listened to leaders from different sectors who all shared a common goal, and addressed the future of Ghana through the lens of heritage.
The Role of Mission Schools
Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo urged mission schools like Heritage Christian University to speak up on national issues. She believes these institutions must address societal problems rather than remain isolated from public discourse. Values taught in these schools should influence the nation because silence from such bodies helps no one. She called for active participation in nation-building, noting that mission schools have a history of shaping character. Her Ladyship argued they must continue this work today and use their voice to demand accountability. Thus, encouraging institutional responsibility.
The Loss of Volunteerism
Ken Ashigbey focused on civic duty and expressed frustration regarding the loss of sacrifice and spirit of volunteerism among Ghanaians. He highlighted the youth demographic specifically, noting that this fading spirit requires immediate attention. He urged citizens to preserve the national heritage through action and by putting community before self. His message was a call to return to foundational values because development needs more than money. It needs people willing to work without immediate reward, and this shift in mindset is crucial for progress, linking personal sacrifice to national stability.
Preserving Our Identity
Ambassador Isaac Osei provided insights into how we can preserve our heritage by bridging the gap between history and modern life. He discussed how we can keep our culture alive, explaining that heritage is not static and requires maintenance. Ambassador Osei explained that heritage includes our values and systems rather than just artifacts or history books. It is about how we treat each other and manage resources, reinforcing the need for active stewardship. His points reinforced the need for active stewardship from every aspect of society.
More Than a Celebration
The event was originally intended to give the public insight into Ghana’s heritage, yet it became far more than a celebration. It created a platform for reflection, where the colours Red, Gold, and Green were not only displayed as national symbols but also discussed as values that should shape citizens’ behaviour. Through this dialogue, Heritage Christian University demonstrated purposeful leadership by using its milestone to inspire deeper national reflection. Rather than merely marking an anniversary, the university transformed the occasion into an opportunity to stimulate meaningful conversations about the country’s future. In doing so, it showed that commemorations can serve as important checkpoints for evaluating national progress. The discussion concluded with a powerful reminder that heritage is a collective responsibility shared by every citizen.
