The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has conferred an honorary doctorate on veteran journalist, publisher, and Pan-Africanist, Kwesi Pratt Jnr. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon him during the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures held by the University on September 22, 2026. The recognition was given in appreciation of his decades-long dedication to journalism, public discourse, democracy, and the ideals of African emancipation.
Prior to the conferment, Mr. Pratt delivered a two-day lecture on the topic, “Kwame Nkrumah, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Perspectives on Constitutionalism, Development and Pan-Africanism.” The Chancellor of UCC, Sir Sam Esson Jonah, highlighted that the honorary doctorate was a testament to Mr. Pratt’s longstanding contributions to Ghana’s media and civic space. His consistent use of journalism and public engagement to hold power accountable and promote social justice and Pan-Africanism was also emphasized.
Sir Sam Esson Jonah further noted that the University was recognizing the importance of independent journalism, courage, and openness to new ideas in sustaining democracy. He stated that a vibrant democracy depends on these elements and that education should not merely focus on awarding academic credentials but also cultivate ethical leadership, critical thinking, and civic courage. This, he believes, is crucial for the development of a well-rounded individual.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto, also acknowledged Mr. Pratt Jnr.’s significant contributions to journalism and the advancement of African emancipation and self-determination. As a journalist, publisher, political commentator, and public advocate, Mr. Pratt Jnr. has played a pivotal role in discussions on Ghana’s political, economic, and social development. He has also been instrumental in promoting Pan-African solidarity and African liberation.
On a related note, Prof. Aheto mentioned that the UCC e-Campus, in collaboration with Astrial Learning, has received a total of 2,854 prospective postgraduate student applications. Out of these, 2,381 applications have been successfully verified and are awaiting admission letters. This initiative aims to enhance UCC’s global visibility, expand international student enrollment and recruitment, and strengthen innovation and efficiency.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Pratt expressed his gratitude to UCC for the honor, stating that he had never imagined receiving an invitation to deliver the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures and subsequently being awarded an honorary doctorate by the University. This recognition serves as a milestone in his illustrious career, highlighting his tireless efforts towards promoting Pan-Africanism and contributing to Ghana’s development.
The event, which included the special congregation and the conferment ceremony, underscored the University’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating outstanding contributions to society. The honor bestowed upon Mr. Pratt Jnr. is a testament to his enduring legacy in journalism and his unwavering dedication to the principles of Pan-Africanism and social justice.
Key points
- The University of Cape Coast confers an honorary doctorate on Kwesi Pratt Jnr. for his contributions to journalism, public discourse, and Pan-Africanism.
- The honorary doctorate was awarded during the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures, recognizing Mr. Pratt’s longstanding commitment to Ghana’s media and civic space.
- The University emphasized the importance of independent journalism, courage, and openness to new ideas in sustaining democracy during the ceremony.
