Identical Ghanaian Twins inducted as Pharmacist and Medical Doctor
Identical Ghanaian twin sisters Sedem and Selom Agboli have been inducted by the Pharmacy Council and the Medical and Dental Council of Ghana. Sedem and Selom Agboli are a true inspiration to many, having achieved such remarkable accomplishments in their young lives. The identical twin sisters have shown that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible. Born to Mr. Theophilus Kwame Agboli, who is a Principal Researcher at the Language Centre at the University of Ghana, and Ms. Regina Agenziya, Sedem, and Selom had their primary education at the University of Ghana Basic School and later had their senior secondary education at the Achimota school where they studied General Science. Selom, who is the second twin, graduated from medical school 2 years ahead of Sedem, who completed Pharmacy school. Sharing the news of their induction in a post on LinkedIn, Selom wrote: “Two inductions, one week! Sedem Agboli and I, Selorm Agboli have been inducted by the Pharmacy Council and the Medical and Dental Council of Ghana respectively. The journey has been nothing short of grace. The dream is now a reality.” The twins had their tertiary education at the University of Ghana sponsored by the Founder and Leader of the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana, Apostle Dr. Ing. Kwadwo Safo. Not only have Sedem and Selom excelled academically, but they also have a passion for fashion and are skilled in hand-beading, which they sell to the public. This shows that they are not only intelligent but also creative and entrepreneurial. READ NEXT ON: Meet Thomas O. Mensah, the Ghanaian – American World Renowned Inventor of Fiber Optics Technology
Meet Thomas O. Mensah, the Ghanaian – American World Renowned Inventor of Fiber Optics Technology
Thomas O. Mensah, a Ghanaian-American, is a globally recognized inventor of fiber optics technology. Born in Kumasi, the second-largest city in Ghana, he obtained his undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi. He continued his graduate studies in Chemical Engineering at Montpellier University in France from 1970 to 1974 through the French Government Fellowship. Mensah is an alumnus of Adisadel College in Cape Coast, Ghana. Mensah is a celebrated chemical engineer and inventor, holding 7 pioneering patents awarded in just six years. He also owns 12 patents critical to the spread of fiber optics networks across the United States since 1985, contributing to the global reach of the internet technology platform. During a recent interview, Dr. Mensah credited his invention of fiber optics technology as one of the four inventors in the 1980s that allowed the internet to explode, citing the fact that fiber optics in sea cables connect countries globally, making social media a big thing today. In 2014, Dr. Mensah was a keynote speaker at Microsoft Corporation headquarters in Redmond, WA. He also won major contracts from the United States Air Force for nanotechnology-based weapons development under the US Department of Defense. Mensah is a fellow of the US National Academy of Inventors (NAI). After many years of innovative and impactful work, Dr. Mensah’s interests have expanded to include multi-billion-dollar infrastructure capitalization and development in emerging countries. This includes projects for electric power generation, surface and air transportation, port expansion, and security, such as border security solutions. Dr. Mensah is a best-selling author of four books, with his fourth book, Frontiers of Nanotechnology, Manufacturing Processes, and Products, released in 2016. He is currently the President, CEO, and Chairman of Georgia Aerospace Systems and Silicon Valley of the South Inc. Mensah is also a member of the Internet Society (ISOC). Indeed, Dr. Thomas O. Mensah’s achievements in the field of chemical engineering and fiber optics technology are truly remarkable and worth emulating. He is a great example of what hard work, dedication, and innovation can accomplish. His impact has not only been felt in the field of technology but also in his efforts to promote infrastructure development and border security solutions in emerging countries. Thomas Mensah’s story is an inspiration to all who aspire to make a difference in the world through their work. Emulating his values and work ethic can lead to great success and impact in one’s own field of expertise. Ayekoo Dr. Thomas Mensah! READ NEXT ON: Dr. Isaiah Blankson – Ghana’s Gift to the World
History of Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC)
The Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) is a prestigious educational institution located in Legon, Accra, Ghana. It was founded in 1938 as the Gold Coast Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School with the primary objective of providing a Christian education to boys in the country under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church of the Gold Coast. The Basel missionary, Nicholas Timothy Clerk (1862–1961), who served as the first Synod Clerk of the Presbyterian Church of the Gold Coast from 1918 to 1932, used his tenure to advocate for the establishment of the secondary school. Since its establishment, PRESEC has become one of the most renowned schools in the country and has produced several notable alumni. The school has a rich history, which began with its establishment during the colonial era. It was initially set up to provide a Christian education to boys in the Gold Coast, which was then a British colony. The school started with only six students and four teachers, and it was located in Odumase-Krobo in the Eastern Region of Ghana. In 1968, the school was moved to Legon, where it occupied its current site. The move was necessary as the school had outgrown its original location and needed more space to accommodate its growing student population. The school’s new location provided an ideal environment for academic and personal development, and it has continued to be home to many generations of students. The School Crest The Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) crest is an essential symbol that represents the school’s values and aspirations. The crest is a shield with various elements that have significant meanings. At the top of the shield is a cross, which represents the school’s Christian foundation and values. The cross symbolizes sacrifice, redemption, and hope, and it reminds students of the importance of living a life of service to others. In the middle of the shield is a lamp, which symbolizes knowledge, wisdom, and guidance. The lamp represents the school’s commitment to providing an education that empowers students to be lifelong learners and leaders who make a positive impact in their communities. Beneath the lamp is the school’s motto, “In Lumine Tuo Videbimus Lumen,” which means “In Thy Light, We Shall See The Light.” The motto reflects the school’s commitment to providing a holistic education that emphasizes spiritual, moral, and academic development. At the bottom of the shield is the school’s name, “Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School,” which serves as a reminder of the school’s history and tradition of excellence. The school crest is an important symbol that represents PRESEC’s values and aspirations. It serves as a constant reminder to students, staff, and alumni of the school’s commitment to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. The Anthem The school’s anthem “Happy Are We”, was written by J. L. Anang and transcribed by Stephen Appiah Danquah PRESEC is a six-time Ghana National Science and Maths Quiz winner and an alumnus of the school called “Ɔdadeɛ”. The PRESEC anthem is a powerful expression of the school’s mission to provide a holistic education that emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. It is a testament to the school’s commitment to instilling in its students the values and virtues that will enable them to become responsible and compassionate leaders in their communities. Awards PRESEC undebatably has proven to be, if not the best, one of the best schools in Ghana. They have chalked so many successes in academics and other fields, and the latest is as below: PRESEC has maintained a reputation for academic excellence since its establishment. The school has produced several notable alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, sports, academia, and business. Some of the most prominent alumni of the school include former Ghanaian Health Minister Bernard Okoe-Boye, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto-Ablakwa, Former Vice Chancellor of UG Ernest Aryeetey, Bernard Avle, etc. Over the years, PRESEC has undergone several changes and improvements to meet the needs of its students. The school has expanded its facilities, including adding new classrooms, laboratories, and residential halls. It has also introduced new academic programs and extracurricular activities to cater to the diverse interests and talents of its students. Today, PRESEC remains a premier educational institution in Ghana, attracting students from all over the country and beyond. As PRESEC continues to grow and evolve, it remains an important part of Ghana’s educational landscape and a beacon of hope for generations of students who pass through its gates. Cheers to BLUEEEEEEEEEE READ NEXT ON: Fort William- Old Slave Trading Center in Anomabo
Fort William- Old Slave Trading Center in Anomabo
Fort William, located in Anomabo, Central Region, Ghana, is a historic fort that has played a significant role in the region’s history. Originally known as Fort Anomabo, it was renamed Fort William in the nineteenth century by its then-commander, Brodie Cruickshank, who added an additional storey to the main building during the reign of King William IV. The fort was constructed in 1753 by the British African Company of Merchants, the successor to the Royal African Company after they successfully thwarted a French attempt to establish a fort at the same location. The fort was designed by the military engineer John Apperly, who became its first governor. However, Apperly died in 1756, and Richard Brew, an Irishman, took over as the fort’s governor and completed its construction in 1760. It is worth noting that two earlier forts had been established at the same site. The Dutch established the first fort in 1640, and the English built Fort Charles in 1674. Unfortunately, Fort Charles was abandoned in 1730 and eventually destroyed. Fort William was a crucial center of British slave trading along the Gold Coast until the slave trade was outlawed in 1807. Despite the fort’s role in the slave trade, it remains an important part of Ghana’s history and heritage. Today, Anomabo is a popular tourist destination due to the historical significance of Fort William. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its role in the slave trade, as well as its importance to the British colonial period in Ghana. The fort also offers stunning views of the surrounding area, and visitors can enjoy picturesque beaches and local hospitality. The fort and the surrounding area continue to attract visitors from all over the world, who are keen to learn about Ghana’s rich history and culture. READ NEXT ON : Fort Amsterdam, a World Heritage Site in Kormantin
Dr. Isaiah Blankson – Ghana’s Gift to the World
Dr. Isaiah Miguel Blankson was a highly respected Senior Scientist/Technologist in the Research and Technology Directorate at NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Born on September 28, 1944, in Cape Coast, Ghana, Dr. Blankson had an outstanding academic record, which led to him being awarded a scholarship to study at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). During his time at MIT, Dr. Blankson earned his Bachelor of Science (BSc), Master of Science (MSc), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. He made history as the first African to receive a doctorate in Aeronautics & Astronautics in 1973, and he was awarded the prestigious Luis de Florez Award for engineering excellence. Nicknamed the “Speed Demon,” Dr. Blankson was internationally renowned for his expertise in hypersonics, supersonic aerodynamics, and propulsion. He spent over a quarter-century at NASA, contributing significantly to the field of aeronautics and space research. Dr. Blankson was a prolific inventor, holding four patents for his inventions. One of his most notable inventions was the Exoskeletal Gas Turbine Engine, which was designed to enhance the efficiency of jet engines by reducing the weight of the engine structure. Another of his groundbreaking inventions was the Magneto-Hydrodynamic Power (MHD) controlled Gas Turbine Engine, which used magnetic fields to generate electricity. In addition to his inventions, Dr. Blankson also served as the US National Delegate to the NATO Research & Technology Organization Working Group, becoming the first Black man to hold such a position. Through his work, he demonstrated his dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of engineering. Dr. Blankson’s contributions to the field of aeronautics and space research did not go unnoticed. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and accolades, including the National Emerald Honors Scientist of the Year award in 2006, two Presidential awards, and the NASA Exceptional Technology Achievement medal. He was widely respected by his colleagues and peers for his technical expertise and commitment to excellence. Sadly, Dr. Blankson passed away on November 19, 2021. His passing was a great loss to the field of aeronautics and space research, as well as to the many people whose lives he touched through his work and mentorship. Nonetheless, his legacy lives on, and his contributions to the field continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. .READ NEXT ON: Dr. Grace Karikari’s KENKAN Books: Promoting Ghanaian Languages globally
Fort Amsterdam, a World Heritage Site in Kormantin
Fort Amsterdam, a historical and cultural gem located in Kormantin, Central Region of Ghana, is a must-visit for tourists who are interested in Ghana’s colonial history. Built between 1638 and 1645 by the English as Fort Cormantin or Fort Courmantyne, the fort was later captured by the Dutch West India Company in 1665 and renamed Fort Amsterdam. The fort was then attacked in 1811 by the people of Anomabo, leaving it in ruins. Fort Amsterdam was subsequently made part of the Dutch Gold Coast until it was traded with the British in 1868. After being unoccupied for several years, the fort was restored in 1951 by the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. Today, the fort is a World Heritage Site that provides visitors with a glimpse into Ghana’s colonial past. Located at Abandze, on the Northeast of Cape Coast in the Mfantseman District of the Central Region of Ghana, Fort Amsterdam offers tourists the opportunity to explore its history and architecture, as well as enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery. With its fascinating history and cultural significance, Fort Amsterdam is a must-visit for tourists who want to experience Ghana’s rich past. Visiting Fort Amsterdam offers a unique opportunity to explore and learn about Ghana’s colonial history. The fort provides a glimpse into the past, highlighting the country’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and the struggle for power between the Dutch and the English. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fort Amsterdam is not only historically significant but also a cultural and architectural treasure. Exploring the fort can also be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich history. READ NEXT ON: Explore the highest waterfall in West Africa; Wli Waterfalls
Larabanga Mosque, The Mecca of West Africa
The Larabanga mosque is a revered religious site located in the Northern region of Ghana and is believed to be the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest in West Africa. Constructed in the 1400s using reeds and mud, the mosque is situated in the town of Larabanga and is a whitewashed structure that has stood the test of time. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the exact date of construction, the mosque is said to have been in existence since 1421. Local oral history recounts the story of Ayuba, an Islamic trader who, while passing through the community, had a dream where he was instructed to construct a mosque. The next morning, Ayuba was surprised to find the foundation of the mosque already built. He then continued with the construction, and upon completion, he was buried under the baobab tree located at the entrance of the mosque. The Larabanga mosque, also known as the ‘Mecca of West Africa’, was built in a Sudanese architectural style and boasts four entrances, one for the village chief, another for the men, women, and the muezzin, the leader of the call to prayer. In addition to its rich history, the mosque is home to a very old Quran, believed to have been delivered from heaven around 1650. Muslims from Ghana and beyond come to pray at the Larabanga mosque, which also serves as a place of pilgrimage. It is important to note that non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mosque. However, the mosque’s rich history and striking architecture make it a popular tourist destination for visitors to the region. The surrounding community is also home to vibrant markets and other cultural sites, making it an ideal location for those interested in learning more about the local way of life. The Larabanga mosque is a testament to the rich history and religious diversity of Ghana. Its enduring presence and significance as a place of prayer and pilgrimage serve as a reminder of the country’s deep cultural roots and the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations. Note to tourists Visiting the Larabanga Mosque is a chance to connect with history, religion, and architecture. It is an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Ghana and West Africa. So, if you are interested in exploring Ghana’s history and culture, make sure to put the Larabanga Mosque on your list of must-visit places. Visit Larabanga Mosque today! READ NEXT ON: All you need to know about Aburi Botanical Gardens
All you need to know about Aburi Botanical Gardens
Aburi Botanical Gardens is a beautiful site located in the town of Aburi, about 30km north of Accra in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The gardens, which were officially opened in March 1890, cover an impressive 160 acres, with 157 acres reserved for the preservation of plant life and the remaining 3 acres used for infrastructure. History of the Botanical Garden Prior to the establishment of the gardens, the Gold Coast Government had built a sanatorium in the area in 1875 for the purpose of providing a place for convalescing Government officials to rest and recuperate. In 1899, during the Governorship of Sir W. Brandford-Griffith K.G.M.G., the Botanic Department was established on a few hectares of land that had been cleared in the vicinity of the sanatorium. The clearing was done under the supervision of a German serving the Basel Mission. In 1890, Mr. William Crowther, a student from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, was appointed as the first curator of the Botanic Garden. Over the years, the garden has undergone significant development, including the construction of a dam, a reservoir, and a network of walking trails. Today, Aburi Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ghana, attracting both locals and visitors from all over the world. The gardens are home to a stunning variety of plant life, including several rare and exotic species that are difficult to find anywhere else. Visiting the Aburi Gardens is a calming and rejuvenating experience that can take your mind off the stresses of everyday life. Because it is located just a 45-minute drive from Accra, it is easy to visit for a day trip or weekend getaway. The gardens are an ideal location for picnics, hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing and enjoying the beauty of nature. The walking trails wind their way through the gardens, passing by beautiful streams, waterfalls, and ponds, and offering visitors the opportunity to see a wide variety of plants and wildlife up close. About the Botanical Garden One of the most popular features of the gardens is the Bamboo Grove, which is home to a stunning collection of bamboo plants that have been carefully cultivated over the years. The Grove is a peaceful and serene spot, and visitors often spend hours admiring the beauty of these majestic plants. In addition to its natural beauty, Aburi Botanical Gardens is also home to several historic buildings and structures that are worth exploring. The most notable of these is the former sanatorium, which has been preserved and converted into a museum that showcases the history of the garden and its development over the years. Another popular attraction is the Fernery, a beautiful glasshouse that is home to a stunning collection of ferns from all over the world. The glasshouse is a peaceful and serene spot, and visitors often spend hours admiring the beauty of these delicate plants. Aburi Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ghana. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful and relaxing place to spend some time, the gardens offer something for everyone. So the next time you are in Ghana, be sure to take a trip to Aburi and experience the beauty and tranquility of this amazing destination. READ NEXT ON: Larabanga Mosque, The Mecca of West Africa
Forbes names Dangote as Africa’s Richest Man for 11th Year
Africa’s billionaires are richer than they have been in years, despite the global pandemic. As a group, the continent’s 18 billionaires are worth an estimated $84.9 billion – a 15% increase from twelve months ago and the most since 2014, when a larger number of billionaires–28–were worth a combined $96.5 billion. On average, the continent’s billionaires are worth $4.7 billion now vs. $3.4 billion in 2014. Soaring stock prices from Nigeria to Zimbabwe lifted the fortunes of these tycoons, as demand for products from cement to luxury goods ticked up. For the 11th year in a row, Aliko Dangote of Nigeria is the continent’s richest person, worth an estimated $13.9 billion, up from $12.1 billion last year following a 30% increase in the stock price of Dangote Cement, his most valuable asset. A surge in housing developments in Nigeria and growth in government infrastructure spending drove higher demand in the first nine months of 2021, analysts found. Jumping into the No. 2 spot–up from No. 4 last year–is luxury goods magnate Johann Rupert of South Africa. A more than 60% surge in the share price of his Compagnie Financiere Richemont–maker of Cartier watches and Montblanc pens–pushed his fortune to $11 billion, up from $7.2 billion a year ago, making him the biggest dollar gainer on the list. South African Nicky Oppenheimer, who formerly ran diamond mining firm DeBeers before selling it to mining firm Anglo American a decade ago, ranks No. 3, worth an estimated $8.7 billion. The biggest gainer in percentage terms–up 125%—is Strive Masiyiwa of Zimbabwe, worth $2.7 billion, up from $1.2 billion last year. Shares of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, which he founded, rose more than 750% in the past year, helping to drive up the size of his fortune. Another gainer: Nigerian cement tycoon Abdulsamad Rabiu, who is $1.5 billion richer after taking yet another of his companies public. In early January 2022, Rabiu listed his sugar and food firm BUA Foods on the Nigerian stock exchange. He and his son retained a 96% stake in the company, which recently had a market capitalization of nearly $2.8 billion. (Forbes discounts the values of stakes when the public float is less than 5%.) BUA Cement, in which he and his son have a 96% stake, was listed in January 2020. Only two of the 18 billionaires are worth less than last year: Koos Bekker of South Africa, who dropped to $2.7 billion from $2.8 billion as the share prices of consumer Internet firms Naspers and Prosus fell more than 20% each, and Mohammed Dewji of Tanzania, whose fortune declined to an estimated $1.5 billion from $1.6 billion a year ago due to lower multiples for publicly traded competitors. The 18 billionaires from Africa, none of whom are new to the ranks, hail from seven different countries. South Africa and Egypt each have five billionaires, followed by Nigeria with three and Morocco with two. All of the continent’s billionaires are men; the last woman to appear in the ranks, Isabel dos Santos of Angola, fell off the Forbes list in January 2021. About Forbes Forbes is an American business magazine that was founded in 1917 by Bertie Charles Forbes. Today, Forbes is one of the most well-known and respected business publications in the world, providing news and analysis on a wide range of topics including finance, investing, entrepreneurship, technology, and more. In addition to its print publication, Forbes has a strong online presence with its website, which features articles, opinion pieces, and video content from a diverse group of contributors including journalists, academics, and industry experts. Forbes also regularly releases rankings and lists, such as the Forbes 400 list of the richest people in America and the World’s Billionaires list. Forbes has a reputation for high-quality journalism and is known for its rigorous fact-checking and editorial standards. The magazine has won numerous awards over the years for its reporting and has been cited as a source by many other media outlets. In addition to its editorial content, Forbes also offers a variety of products and services for businesses and individuals. These include conferences, online courses, and a platform for entrepreneurs and business owners to connect with investors and other industry professionals. Source: The Ghana Report READ NEXT ON: Avance Media releases list of top 30 Female Diplomats in Ghana
Deborah Osei-Tutu: First to graduate KNUST’s Physics department as Best Student
Deborah Osei-Tutu is the first to have graduated from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology as the Best Student in the Department of Physics with a CWA of 80.06% ever since the establishment of the department. Deborah write; I am Deborah Osei-Tutu, the second child of Mr. and Mrs. Osei-Tutu. I attended New World International School, in Atonsu- Kumasi where I studied for my Basic Education Certificate Examination, and later Wesley Girls’ High School in Cape Coast, for my West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations. In 2021, I graduated from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology as the Best Student in the Department of Physics with a CWA of 80.06% (the highest CWA since the establishment of the department). I am currently working as a Research and Teaching assistant in the Department of Physics, KNUST. Over the years, I have desired to become a very influential educationist. Time and again, I share with friends that I want to be a teacher that would help transform both the mind and hearts of men. It was never a problem to me even if it meant becoming a teacher in kindergarten to achieve this dream. Nevertheless, my dream took a detour after completion of SHS; the youth become my target group, the natural environment my concern, and Physics of the earth my interest. Having obtained 8A’s in my WASSCE exams, my father wanted me to read Human Biology and become a medical doctor in the future and that would have been his greatest pride. Honestly, it was a challenging one for Daddy to accept my choice. I was part of the selected students to read Human biology in KNUST in 2017 but had to reject that, without Daddy’s knowledge. In a mop-up interview organized for the enlisted candidates, I confidently voiced out my passion and preference for Physics over Medicine and that was the beginning of my journey. Now Daddy is proud I did what I loved and I am excelling in it. Not only were my parents not in support, but also friends and teachers. Everyone around me made me feel I have made a great mistake of choosing Physics over Medicine. With grace and determination, I was able to cross over the sea of despondency. The vision is still in place and I am poised for the bright future ahead. I want to be in academia and become a geophysicist and research scientist that would help advance the understanding of the world around us. “Possessions, fame, status, and power can never be substituted for a personal sense of purpose and significance. Until purpose is discovered, existence has no meaning, for purpose is the source of fulfillment” Dr. Myles Munroe “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” Albert Einstein My advice to my brothers and sisters is this: Discover your purpose, appreciate the things you love make rightful choices based on that and be resilient to fulfill that purpose. To those who love Physics like me, don’t be discouraged by what others say about the course. Physics is an amazing course with so many career opportunities. READ NEXT ON: Dr. Grace Karikari’s KENKAN Books: Promoting Ghanaian Languages globally
