H.EJohn Dramani Mahama has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration by Yonsei University.
The university stated that the honorary degree recognises the Ghanaian leader’s outstanding contributions to national transformation, economic development, and his engagement with the global academic community.
The award was formally conferred on March 13, 2026, during a ceremony presided over by Yoon Dong-sup and Kim Hyun-chul.
In his acceptance remarks, John Dramani Mahama expressed gratitude to the government and people of South Korea for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit.
“I thank the government and people of Korea for the warm hospitality extended to me and my delegation during this visit. I also extend my gratitude to the Board of Trustees, President Yoon, the faculty, staff, and students of Yonsei University for this memorable occasion. And I say in Korean, Gamsahamnida,” he said.
John Dramani Mahama noted that the honorary degree reflects the deep respect and mutual admiration between Ghana and South Korea.
“This honour you have bestowed on me today is one I accept on behalf of all the people of Ghana, as a symbol of the deep respect, strong relations, and mutual admiration that exist between our two countries,” he said.
He also expressed hope that the longstanding friendship between Ghana and South Korea would continue to grow through cooperation, peace, and shared development.
“May the friendship between Ghana and Korea continue to grow deeper and stronger. May we all commit to choosing peace over conflict, cooperation over confrontation, and hope over despair,” John Dramani Mahama added.
President Mahama also urged young people in South Korea, particularly the students of Yonsei University, to strive for excellence, concluding his remarks with the Korean expression of encouragement, Hwaiting.
