University of Ghana celebrates the Late Kofi Annan

The University of Ghana has expressed with deep concern, shock and says it is deeply saddened by the death of former United Nations (UN) Secretary-General and its immediate past Chancellor, Kofi Annan.

A statement signed by Ms Stella A Amoa, Director of Public Affairs, said the Principal Officers – Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse, the Chancellor, Professor Yaw Twumasi, Chairman of the University Council and Prof Ebenezer Oduro Owusu, the Vice Chancellor, had all expressed shock at his death.

Mr Annan, the celebrated Ghanaian diplomat, died in the Swiss capital of Bern, in the early hours of Saturday at the age of 80.

The statement said “The University of Ghana and the world have indeed lost a distinguished leader who was incomparable in all respects.

He demonstrated true servant and selfless leadership, always wishing the best for his nation and the world. A true peace maker he was.”

The statement said “as Chancellor, Mr. Kofi Annan was instrumental in attracting numerous funding sources to the university especially in the areas of agricultural research and ICT development”.

“The former Chancellor, will be remembered as a man of principle and gentle disposition.”

“The University mourns with the family and shall cling to the memory of his life, his avowed passion for the University, and his legacy,” it added

Announcing the death, the Annan family and Kofi Annan Foundation posted on Facebook: “It is with immense sadness that the Annan family and the Kofi Annan Foundation announce that Kofi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, passed away peacefully on Saturday 18th August after a short illness. His wife Nane and their children Ama, Kojo and Nina were by his side during his last days.”

“Kofi Annan was a global statesman and a deeply committed internationalist who fought throughout his life for a fairer and more peaceful world. During his distinguished career and leadership of the United Nations he was an ardent champion of peace, sustainable development, human rights and the rule of law,” the post added.