Wisdom Selasie Degbey, a staff member at Ghana’s Ministry of Interior who overcame severe health challenges during his studies, has been named valedictorian of the Institute of Distance Learning (IDL) at the 59th congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

Degbey enrolled in the BSc Business Administration (Marketing option) in 2023 after earning a Higher National Diploma in Marketing from Ho Technical University.

He completed the programme with a cumulative weighted average of 78.70, earning A grades in all but one course.

In his valedictory address, Degbey described his academic journey as “perseverance powered by purpose,” saying he balanced demanding coursework with health setbacks and professional duties as a public servant.

“As we step into the world, let’s carry with us this truth: delay is not denial,” he told fellow graduates. “Every delay holds a possibility of growth, reflection and building resilience.”

Degbey recalled moments when medical challenges threatened his progress, noting that resilience became his “compass.”

“For those who think it is too late to achieve their academic dreams, let this be a message of hope. It’s never too late. Whether you’re 18 or 80, pursuing a dream starts now,” he said.

He added that delay can be “a detour, not a dead end,” describing it as “a period of growth in disguise.”

Encouraging colleagues to confront doubt and fear with determination, he said: “Let’s gather the courage to start, no matter how long it takes. I stand here today not because the road was smooth, but because I refused to stop.”