“Education is the point at which we decide whether we love the world enough to assume responsibility for it,” Dr. Cindy Jebb, president of Ramapo College of New Jersey told graduating MPhil and PhD students at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), framing academic achievement as a duty to society.

Speaking at the 59th Special Congregation Dr. Jebb urged graduates to see their education beyond personal success, describing it as a foundation for responsible citizenship and collective progress. She said the values underpinning education must guide how individuals contribute to their communities and the wider world.

“You have the best years of your lives ahead of you, the whole world ahead of you,” she said, encouraging graduates to embrace opportunities while remaining mindful of their societal obligations.

Referencing Ghana's first president Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, she said education and leadership should act as unifying forces in society, adding that institutions such as KNUST play a critical role in shaping that vision.

She reinforced this message with Nkrumah’s words: “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.”

Dr. Jebb also highlighted the long-standing partnership between KNUST and Ramapo College, noting that collaboration between the two institutions spans more than 25 years and continues to expand through research and academic exchange.

She expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended to her delegation and acknowledged the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, whose tenure she said has had a lasting impact on the university’s global outlook.

Dr. Jebb further recognised the contributions of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Asamoah, and faculty members in strengthening international partnerships.

She concluded by encouraging graduates to see their degrees not only as recognition of academic effort but as a call to service and leadership in addressing societal challenges.