Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Dr Julius Debrah, has expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama, his family, academic mentors and research partners following the successful completion of his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Museum and Heritage Studies at the University of Ghana.
In an emotional acknowledgement contained in his doctoral thesis, Dr Debrah dedicated the academic work to President Mahama and Mrs Lordina Mahama, describing their commitment to leadership, public service and national development as a constant source of inspiration throughout his academic journey.
He also paid glowing tribute to his wife, Mrs Victoria Debrah, and their children for their patience, sacrifices, understanding and unwavering encouragement during the years of study.
“Their steadfast belief in me has been an invaluable source of strength and motivation,” he stated, while also thanking his siblings for their prayers, support and goodwill throughout the programme.
Dr Debrah reserved special appreciation for his Principal Supervisor, Professor Kodzo Gavua, and members of his Thesis Supervisory Committee,Professor Benjamin Kankpeyeng and Dr Pascall Taruvinga for their exceptional guidance, intellectual support, constructive criticism and commitment that culminated in the successful completion of the research.
He further acknowledged members of his field research team for their dedication and resilience during the demanding fieldwork, describing their contributions as indispensable to the success of the study.
The Chief of Staff also commended faculty members and students of the Department of Archaeology and Heritage Studies at the University of Ghana for fostering a stimulating academic environment and sharing valuable knowledge and experiences throughout his doctoral studies.
Dr Debrah extended heartfelt appreciation to the chiefs, queen mothers, elders and people of Kwahu for their immense support during the research. He singled out Nana Effah Opinimang III, Chief of Obomeng; Nana Kwasi Opoku Minta II, Chief of Kwahu Tafo; and Nana Akyemfour Asiedu Agyemang III, Chief of Abetifi for their cooperation and invaluable contributions.
He equally thanked all research participants who generously shared their knowledge, experiences and time, noting that their insights greatly enriched the study.
The Chief of Staff further acknowledged the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for funding his doctoral programme through the Remaking Societies, Remaking Persons (RSRP) supranational project, under which he served as a Research Fellow at the University of Ghana.
According to him, the scholarship provided an invaluable opportunity for academic growth, intellectual development and the successful completion of his doctoral journey.
Concluding his acknowledgement, Dr Debrah expressed appreciation to everyone who supported him academically, spiritually and personally.
“This achievement is not mine alone; it reflects the generosity, support and confidence of the many individuals and institutions who accompanied me on this journey,” he stated.
Quoting President John Dramani Mahama, Dr Debrah ended his message with the words: “This achievement is a powerful reminder that learning is a lifelong pursuit.”
The acknowledgement has attracted widespread admiration, with many describing it as a testament to humility, gratitude and the importance of family, mentorship and collaborative support in achieving academic excellence.
