President John Dramani Mahama has been honoured by Russia’s Peoples’ Friendship University (RUDN University) in recognition of his contributions to expanding access to education and strengthening cooperation between Ghana and Russia in the areas of education and scientific research.
The recognition underscores Ghana’s efforts to promote equitable access to higher education under President Mahama’s leadership. Key among these initiatives is support for more than 152,000 first-year students enrolled in public universities, as well as the provision of free higher education for students living with disabilities.
Speaking to the university community after receiving the honour, President Mahama emphasized the need for African leaders to move beyond rhetoric and transform the aspirations of the continent’s founding fathers into tangible outcomes.
He said achieving Africa’s development goals would require sustained investment in quality education, the strengthening of institutions and the creation of greater opportunities for the continent’s youthful population.
President Mahama also called on African leaders and the international community to engage in informed dialogue and cooperation to address the lingering effects of historical injustices, including colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade.
According to him, confronting these historical challenges is essential to fostering mutual understanding, promoting global equity and creating a more inclusive future for coming generations.
The honour from RUDN University highlights the growing educational and academic ties between Ghana and Russia and serves as recognition of efforts aimed at expanding access to higher education and advancing international collaboration in research and innovation.