The Department of Modern Languages kicked off its 60th Anniversary celebration with a colourful launch themed, 'Celebrating 60 years of Global Engagement: Language Exploration and Cultural Understanding.’
Chairing the launch, Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro-Vice Chancellor, ASA, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Department on reaching this milestone. He echoed the importance of fostering language and cultural diversity. While acknowledging the support from the various embassies in the country for their continued partnerships, the Pro Vice-Chancellor also recognised previous Heads of Department for their dedication in producing quality and well-equipped alumni.
Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro-Vice Chancellor, ASA
Prof. Awandare intimated that the University's Management has approved the division of the Department into two, starting next academic year, as well as the procedures that will be implemented to address their challenges. He concluded by urging members of the Department to work together in order to maintain its reputation of providing high-quality education.
The Special Guest for the occasion was H.E. Sena Siaw-Boateng, an alumna and Chief Director, Ministry of National Security. She emphasised the significance of appreciating communication and language, as well as having the bravery and willingness to learn new languages and cultures. She, therefore, encouraged guests not to be afraid to make errors while learning various languages, urging all to cultivate the habit of cultural sensitivity.
H.E. Sena Siaw-Boateng, Chief Director, Ministry of National Security
H.E. Siaw-Boateng also mentioned the importance of becoming language learning advocates because of the long-term influence it has on individuals. She concluded her address by officially launching the 60th anniversary.
In earlier remarks, Dr. Joanna Boampong, Head of the Department of Modern Languages Department, stated that “the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Department is especially significant as it marks the end of an era. As the last person to Head the Department of Modern Languages, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the past Heads of the Department on whose shoulders I stand today. Your leadership has been outstanding”.
Dr. Joanna Boampong, Head of the Department of Modern Languages Department
Prof. Josephine Dzahene-Quarshie, Dean, School of Languages, also in her remarks extended hearty congratulations to the Department of Modern Languages for attaining 60 years.
“Six decades of dedication, growth and excellence in foreign language teaching have shaped the Department to what it is today; a vibrant hub of language learning, cultural exploration and scholarly pursuit.”
Prof. Dzahene-Quarshie re-echoed that, the Department’s 60th anniversary celebration marks a transition into a phase of development, where two new departments approved by the University Council in response to the Department’s proposal, will replace the current Department in the 2024/2025 academic year.
Prof. Josephine Dzahene-Quarshie, Dean, School of Languages
She added “we will embrace the evolution with optimism, knowing that our legacy will continue to thrive in new forms”.
On his part, Prof. Daniel Ofori, Provost of the College of Humanities, challenged the Department to introduce new languages of study and PhD programmes, to cater for the possible growth that will arise from the division into two separate departments. He urged members of the Department to keep up with the good work and remain dedicated to its growth.
Prof. Daniel Ofori, Provost of the College of Humanities
Mr. Andrews Kwame Sesah, a student of the Department currently on his year abroad study, received an award for winning the Department of Modern Languages @ 60 Anniversary logo design competition.
Some of the activities lined up for the celebration include a Colloquium, Sports Gala and a homecoming dinner in August to climax the celebration.
