Yonsei University Honors President Mahama with Honorary PhD for Leadership and Ghana–Korea Partnership

President John Dramani Mahama has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration by Yonsei University in South Korea, in recognition of his leadership and contributions to Ghana’s national development and global engagement.

The honorary degree was conferred during a ceremony at the prestigious Seoul-based institution, where Mahama delivered a keynote address highlighting the deepening ties between Ghana and the Republic of Korea.

In his remarks, President Mahama described the honour as a symbolic bridge connecting two nations, two continents and two peoples committed to building a better future.

He praised Yonsei University for its global reputation in education and innovation, noting that for more than 140 years the university has nurtured leaders and advanced knowledge in fields such as medicine, engineering, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and renewable energy.

Mahama said the university’s motto, “Truth Will Set You Free,” strongly resonated with his personal beliefs and Ghana’s educational philosophy.

The President reflected on his own formative years at the University of Ghana, recalling how the motto of Commonwealth Hall – “Truth Stands” – inspired him to pursue a life of public service.

Mahama also highlighted the shared historical journeys of Ghana and South Korea. Both nations, he noted, were shaping their national identities in 1957, when Ghana gained independence from colonial rule and Korea began promoting its culture internationally following the Korean War.

While acknowledging that the two countries have followed different development paths since then, he emphasized that commitments to excellence and truth have defined their progress.

Mahama praised South Korea’s transformation into a global economic powerhouse driven by education, technology and innovation, pointing to internationally recognized brands such as Samsung, Hyundai, Kia and LG.

He also celebrated Ghana’s global cultural influence through its kente cloth, cocoa, shea butter, music genres like highlife and Afrobeats, and the internationally loved Ghanaian jollof rice.

Looking ahead, the President underscored the importance of stronger Africa–Asia cooperation, particularly as Africa’s population and youth demographic continue to grow.

According to Mahama, by 2050 Africa will account for about a quarter of the world’s population, with one-third of the global youth population coming from the continent.

He said this young and dynamic population represents a major opportunity for innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Mahama encouraged greater collaboration between Korea and Africa in sectors such as education, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, technology, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

He also welcomed Yonsei University’s involvement in supporting the transformation of Bonso Agricultural College into a campus of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development in Ghana.

Describing the Ghana–Korea relationship as one built on mutual respect and partnership, Mahama stressed that Africa and Asia must work together to shape a more equitable and multipolar global order.

“My vision for Ghana is to prove that democracy works and to build a prosperous, self-reliant nation where innovation drives economic growth and young people become job creators,” he said.

Mahama concluded by thanking the Korean government, Yonsei University and the Korean people for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

Accepting the honorary doctorate on behalf of the people of Ghana, he said the recognition reflects the deep friendship and growing cooperation between Ghana and South Korea.