Chancellor of University of Gold Coast unveils vision for Africa’s leadership future – Nsemkeka
Bishop Dr. Gideon Titi-Ofei, Founder and Presiding Bishop of Pleasant Place Church, has been officially invested as the Chancellor of the newly renamed University of Gold Coast, formerly Accra Business School.
The investiture ceremony, held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the institution’s Assembly Hall in Accra, was attended by dignitaries from across the globe and themed “Building Leaders for the Nations.”
The event celebrated Bishop Titi-Ofei’s outstanding journey in leadership development, pastoral ministry, and higher education, from humble beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s most prominent thought leaders. It marked a significant chapter for the university, which has rebranded itself to match its ambitious vision of raising transformational leaders across Africa and beyond.
During his address, Bishop Titi-Ofei emphasised the deeper purpose of leadership as service rather than status. “Leadership is not about personal glory. It is about raising others,” he declared.
“You don’t need a prominent name or a privileged background to make a significant impact. You need purpose, discipline, and a heart for service.”
He articulated the university’s bold mission to address the continent’s pressing leadership challenges through education rooted in integrity and excellence. “We are not here to produce graduates with just degrees; we are here to release destinies,” he said to resounding applause. “This university will be the womb of a new generation of leaders who will not shy away from responsibility, but rise to the challenge.”
Referencing the biblical story from Judges 9, Bishop Titi-Ofei warned of the consequences when capable and principled individuals refuse to step into leadership roles, comparing the societal vacuum that ensues to the reign of a thorn bush.
“When men of integrity and vision refuse to step up, we hand over society to those unworthy of leadership,” he cautioned.
As he assumes his new role, Bishop Titi-Ofei pledged a lifelong commitment to mentoring emerging leaders who will bring meaningful change to their communities. “The future of Africa will not be shaped by international donors,” he affirmed. “It will be shaped by African leaders who are disciplined, Christ-centered, and bold enough to lead with love and integrity.”
Delivering the keynote address, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare lauded Bishop Titi-Ofei’s legacy and urged the university community to see the Chancellor’s investiture as a divine assignment to raise a new cadre of visionary leaders.
He emphasised the importance of forming leaders who are not only intellectually sound but spiritually grounded, capable of reforming every sector of society.
Archbishop Agyinasare outlined five distinct leadership traits that have defined Bishop Titi-Ofei’s journey transformational, charismatic, servant, ethical, and strategic leadership. These qualities, he noted, have positioned him as a beacon of inspiration both within and outside the church. Citing Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” the Archbishop issued a strong call to action to faculty, students, clergy, and leaders present, charging them to embrace their role in shaping global reformers.
Describing the University of Gold Coast as more than just an academic institution, Archbishop Agyinasare called it a “leadership altar” destined to birth reformers and rebuilders who will tackle Africa’s unique challenges with wisdom and spiritual fortitude. He prayed for the university to become a light to the nations and a cradle for kingdom-minded innovators.
Among the special guests was Baroness Arlene Foster, former First Minister of Northern Ireland and Member of the UK House of Lords.
In her deeply personal address, she reflected on her journey of self-belief and academic pursuit, becoming the first in her family to attend grammar school and later university. She encouraged students to take charge of their futures with faith and resilience, quoting Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Baroness Foster identified three key principles that have underpinned her own success: listening, learning, and leveraging passion. She advised students to seek wisdom from mentors, learn from life’s experiences, and apply their passion for the betterment of their communities and the continent.
“Education is not just a path to personal success. It is the foundation for transforming families, societies, and nations,” she said.
She expressed her admiration for the University of Gold Coast’s renewed vision and praised its leadership for its bold commitment to empowering Africa’s next generation.
“It’s a joy to witness the beginning of this new chapter. This university is giving young men and women the opportunity to uncover their potential and rise to greatness,” Baroness Foster said.
She applauded Bishop Titi-Ofei and the university administration for their visionary leadership and urged students to maximize every opportunity afforded them.
The investiture of Bishop Dr Gideon Titi-Ofei as Chancellor of the University of Gold Coast marks a historic milestone, not only for the institution but for leadership development across the continent. With a clear vision rooted in Christian values, academic excellence, and social impact, the university is positioning itself as a transformative force in higher education and nation-building.