Christian Service University (CSU), Kumasi, has successfully held its 49th Congregation Ceremony, marking a historic milestone as the first graduation ceremony at which the University conferred its own degrees, diplomas and certificates following the grant of a Presidential Charter in September 2023. The colourful ceremony, held on Friday, December 20, 2025, was on the theme: “New Beginning, Bright Future.” Below, were the highlights of the ceremony:
The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Stephen Banahene described the congregation as a defining moment in the University’s journey as a faith-based institution committed to academic excellence and Christian discipleship. He noted that CSU’s transition into a fully autonomous university signified not only institutional maturity but also a renewed call to service, innovation and ethical leadership.
Graduation Statistics and Annual Report
He announced that a total of 563 graduands were presented for degrees and certificates, comprising 241undergraduate, 283 postgraduate, and 39 certificate candidates in Biblical Studies and Ministry. Of the total number, 328 were males (58%) and 235 females (42%). Undergraduate results included 10 First Class, 105 Second Class Upper Division, 141 Second Class Lower Division, 25 Third Class, and 2 Passes.
He further disclosed that student enrolment continues to rise steadily. As at the 2025/2026 academic year, the University recorded 3,031 registered students, with projections indicating growth to about 4,000 students. He highlighted the implications of the growing population for infrastructure and logistics, noting ongoing investments in classroom modernisation, IT infrastructure expansion, procurement of additional furniture, and the acquisition of a 60-seater Tata bus to improve student transportation.
He also revealed plans for future expansion, including the development of the University’s 11.5-acre land at Sabin Akrofrom, earmarked for health-related programmes, and appealed to the investment community to partner with the University. In addition, three new academic programmes—Bachelor of Law (LLB), MA Chaplaincy Studies, and Doctor of Ministry—have been submitted to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), with postgraduate programmes nearing accreditation.
He finally urged graduands to uphold faith, integrity and excellence, describing them as the pioneering alumni of CSU under its Presidential Charter and calling on them to remain connected to support the University’s growth and mentor future students.
Speeches
The Chancellor of the University, Most Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Kwaku Asante, formally constituted the congregation, describing the occasion as deeply personal and historic. As one of the earliest alumni of the institution, he expressed strong passion for alumni engagement and announced plans to organise a Friends and Alumni Day and a future Alumni Homecoming to mobilise support for the University’s development.
The Guest Speaker, Prof. Bernard Kumi-Boateng, Dean of the Faculty of Geoscience at the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, delivered an inspiring address anchored on the ceremony’s theme. Drawing from the academic journey of his wife, an alumna of Christian Service University, he paid glowing tribute to the values of resilience, faith and service instilled by CSU, describing the University as a builder of character as much as intellect. He encouraged graduands to uphold moral discipline and ethical leadership as they pursue new beginnings.
The Special Guest of Honour, Former Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, also addressed the ceremony, urging graduates to maintain optimism despite prevailing negative narratives about national development. He highlighted Ghana’s progress in educational access, particularly gender parity at the secondary level through the Free Senior High School policy, and pledged his continued support and friendship to the University. Hon. Adutwum has maintained longstanding ties with CSU, including participation in its 50th Anniversary celebrations.
Adjudged the Valedictorian with a GPA of 3.83, Mr. Stephen Appiah reflected on the academic journey of the graduating class, recounting challenges such as late-night studies, academic sacrifices, and balancing work and family responsibilities. He acknowledged the role of God’s grace in sustaining the class from admission to graduation and commended the University for its strong academic and moral training.
He further urged his colleagues to see education as a call to service, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus Christ, Mother Teresa, and Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
Special Recognition
Mr. Joseph Asante, alias (Sika wo Bush), a member of the graduating class was honoured with a citation for his profound contribution to the facelift of the University’s Chapman Library Relaxation Arena. The citation recognised his generous support in transforming the space into a welcoming environment that promotes reflection, renewal, and academic wellbeing among students, describing his gesture as an enduring legacy to the University community.
The 49th Graduation Ceremony brought together key stakeholders of the University and concluded with heartfelt gratitude to God, University leadership, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and partners. The occasion reaffirmed CSU’s commitment to remain a beacon of faith, learning, and service in Ghana and beyond.
