The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has conferred an honorary doctorate on veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr, recognising his decades-long contribution to Ghana's media and civic space. Pratt, known for asking uncomfortable questions of governments, was honoured during the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures. The conferment took place at a special congregation held immediately after the lecture series concluded. This honour acknowledges Pratt's consistent use of journalism and public engagement to hold power accountable and promote social justice and Pan-Africanism.
Before receiving the honour, Pratt delivered a two-day lecture titled "Kwame Nkrumah, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Perspectives on Constitutionalism, Development and Pan-Africanism." The lecture series, an annual UCC tradition, examines the ideas and legacy of Ghana's first president, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and their relevance to contemporary governance and African unity. This event provided a platform for Pratt to share his perspectives on Nkrumah's legacy and its significance in modern times.
UCC Chancellor Sir Sam Esson Jonah stated that the honour recognised Pratt's longstanding contribution to Ghana's media and civic space. He emphasised that a vibrant democracy depends on courage, independent journalism, and openness to new ideas. Sir Jonah also highlighted the importance of education in cultivating ethical leadership, critical thinking, and civic courage among students and the wider public. The chancellor's remarks underscored the value of independent journalism in sustaining accountability.
The honour comes at a time when press freedom and the role of independent media in holding institutions accountable remain subjects of ongoing debate in Ghana. By publicly recognising a journalist for decades of scrutiny of those in power, UCC's gesture signals an institutional endorsement of independent journalism, courage, and openness in public life. This recognition places a spotlight on the value of a free and probing press in sustaining accountability.
UCC Vice-Chancellor Prof Denis Worlanyo Aheto also spoke to Pratt's role as a journalist, publisher, political commentator, and public advocate. He noted Pratt's contributions to discussions on Ghana's political, economic, and social development, as well as his promotion of Pan-African solidarity and African liberation. The vice-chancellor's remarks highlighted Pratt's multifaceted impact on Ghanaian society and the media landscape.
In his acceptance remarks, Pratt expressed appreciation to UCC, saying he had never imagined being invited to deliver the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures, let alone receiving an honorary doctorate from the university. The sources do not indicate any further scheduled events tied to the honour or the lecture series beyond the congregation already held. Pratt's humility and gratitude were evident in his response to the honour.
Separately, Prof Aheto updated attendees on UCC's e-Campus initiative delivered with Astrial Learning, disclosing that 2,854 prospective postgraduate students had applied for admission through the platform, with 2,381 applications successfully verified and awaiting admission letters. He described the initiative as designed to boost the university's global visibility and expand international recruitment. This update provided insight into UCC's efforts to enhance its global presence.
Key points
- The University of Cape Coast confers an honorary doctorate on veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr.
- The honour recognises Pratt's decades-long contribution to Ghana's media and civic space.
- The event took place during the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures, an annual UCC tradition.
