From Kwaku Wirekoh-Boateng & Joe Kingsley Eyiah, Toronto-Canada

The Toronto Ghanaian and Heritage Ghanaian Seventh-Day Adventist Churches held their ninth annual Graduation Banquet on Saturday, August 28. This Graduation Banquet instituted by the dynamic Education Council of the two churches in 2002, seeks to promote formal education among church members (both young and old) and reward those who stay on course to complete their education at the various recognized levels of schooling.

The event this year, hosted by YoDEP’s (Youth Development and Empowerment Project) Director Ben Antwi, honoured 41 graduates – 16 middle school, 10 high school, and 15 college/university. Approximately 250 people attended, including family members and other church members.

Toronto mayoral candidate Rocco Achampong was the guest speaker for the evening. In an eloquent speech, Achampong galvanized the graduates and audience to become more engaged citizens in Canadian public life. He also urged the college and university graduates to strive for excellence in their respective fields and to uphold the name of Ghanaians in Canada.

Referring to them as the most fortunate generation in history, Achampong advised the youth to make use of the opportunities afforded them to advance society. After Achampong’s address, each graduate was called up to receive a certificate and gift. Following the conferring of the certificates, Pastor Oppong Damson brought the evening to an end with a prayer.

Next year’s banquet, the 10th anniversary event, promises to be special.