By Somutar Abigail
Miss Erica Okyere, a 22-year-old graduate, has been adjudged the best graduating student of the Department of Communication Studies of the University of Cape Coast’s (UCC) during its 57th graduation ceremony.
With an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.804, she received a cash prize of GHS1,000.00 and a certificate as the overall best graduating student of her department.
Additionally, Miss Okyere was honoured with the prestigious Prof. William Kodom Gyasi (Head of Department) cash prize Award of GHS600.00 and a certificate.
Miss Okyere attributed her success to her determination to excel academically and the vow she made not disappoint those who invested in her education.
“During my time at UCC, I pledged to study so hard that I would not receive a grade lower than a ‘C’ in any of my examinations, and that commitment has brought me this far,” she stated.
She expressed deep gratitude for the incredible support she received from her uncle, who provided both financial assistance and words of encouragement throughout her studies.
“This award has set a standard for my future accomplishments and proves that I can achieve anything regardless of my background,” she added.
Having completed her degree in Communication Studies, Miss Okyere expressed hope to pursue a law degree or a master’s in media law saying, “I also aspire to study abroad to gain exposure to different cultures and perspectives.”
The ceremony also saw other outstanding students honoured including Miss Ann Akanligba, who achieved a CGPA of 3.348, and received the Prof. Kodom Gyasi award for the best graduating visually impaired student and was given GHS600.00 and a certificate.
Mr. Elvis Kofi Otoo received GHS500.00 and a certificate as the awardee of Mr. Marcellinus Dery’s Best Graduating Student in Journalism with a CGPA of 3.545.
Mr. Gudrun Akoamoah-Adofo was also honoured with GHS500.00 and a certificate as the winner of Mr. Marcellinus Dery’s award for Best Graduating Student in Communication Ethics, established in honour of the late Mr. Eric Kanliezu.
A total of 120 students from the Department of Communication Studies graduated from the school during its 57th annual congregation, with thirteen students achieving first-class honours.