A 22-year-old student of the University of Ghana (Legon) Business School, Jacklord Agyabeng Amponsah, has left an enviable record at the university, graduating as the best student of his group.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Administration (Accounting Option) on top of his cohort with a Final Grade Point Average of 3.93.
According to the proud young man, his life on campus was guided by his dream of excelling in a chosen field of study to make his parents, family and community proud.
In his speech at the graduation ceremony on 21st March, 2023, the Valedictorian admitted he and all his colleagues faced all forms of challenges from personal obstacles, financial stress and the pressure to succeed and yet they never gave up and added, “We persisted, and the support of God, families, lecturers and friends made all the difference.”
Jacklord Amponsah explained the major challenge they faced was the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic when students were compelled to stay at home for almost a year and went through fear and panic because of the increasing death rates.
“It became very serious that most people began saying, ‘By June everyone will be dead.’ Thanks are to God we survived the pandemic and here we are gathered with little fear for COVID.”
“We had to endure the challenges of an imperfect online academic system, the first of its kind in the University of Ghana. We struggled with network issues caused by login into zoom lectures, and time-bound online assessments among others. We also suffered threats of the school closing down.”
“However, despite these challenges, we persevered and continued to work hard recognizing this niche that comes from working together and brainstorming on various topics and leaning from one another.”
He expressed firm belief he and his fellow graduants will make a great contribution in their various fields of endeavour as they leave campus for the world of work.
Background
Jacklord Agyabeng Amponsah pursued his basic and secondary education at Grace International School and Presbyterian Boys Secondary School, Legon, respectively.
At PRESEC-Legon, he studied Business, which was his passion, and was adjudged the Best Accounting Student in Forms one and two, as well as the Best Economics Student in Form two.
By dint of hard work, grace and dedication, Jacklord passed his WASSCE with flying colours and gained admission into the University of Ghana Business School.
He was a member of Elizabeth Frances Sey Hall during his undergraduate days.
Recognising the benefit of synergy, he and some of his colleagues formed a study group, where they peer-reviewed their work and brainstormed on various topics.
At Level 300, Jacklord opted to specialise in Accounting. Being an active member of the Accounting Students Association (ASA), Jacklord joined the ASA quiz team and participated in many quiz competitions.
Significantly, in 2022, he was a member of the team that participated in the six-month Tertiary Business Sense challenge version 4.0, where the team was crowned the South East Regional champions in October 2022.
His membership in the ASA Audit Chamber also enabled him to provide valuable service as Head of the Pentecost Students Association (PENSA).
Jacklord Agyabeng Amponsah’s desire is to become an Accountant and Data Analyst.
His father hails from Akim Akenkausu in Achiase District and his mother is from Adukrom in Okere District, all in the Eastern Region. He worships at the Church of Pentecost, Tantra Hill District, Accra.
