(PICTURES) Valley View University Holds 31st Matriculation Ceremony at Kumasi Campus, Welcomes New Students

Valley View University has officially welcomed a new cohort of students into its academic community during its 31st Matriculation Ceremony held across its Oyibi, Kumasi, and Techiman campuses from March 3 to March 5, 2026.

The ceremony, which marks the formal admission of students into the university, brought together university leadership, faculty, parents, alumni, and distinguished guests to celebrate the beginning of an important academic journey for the new matriculants.

Delivering the matriculation address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Daniel Ganu, warmly welcomed the students and reminded them that their admission into the university was not only an opportunity but also a responsibility to pursue excellence with integrity.

“Today is not just a ceremony for photographs. Today is your formal entry into this academic community,” Prof. Ganu stated. “From this moment, you are recognised as members of Valley View University, and you accept the responsibility to live by the standards and values of this institution.”

Rooted in Values, Rising in Excellence

The Vice Chancellor explained that the university’s matriculation theme, “Rooted in Values, Rising in Excellence,” reflects the institution’s commitment to nurturing students academically while shaping their character.

According to him, Valley View University is a value-based Christian institution that focuses on the holistic development of students—intellectually, morally, spiritually, and socially.

He emphasized that the university’s guiding principles are Excellence, Integrity, and Service, values that every student is expected to embody throughout their academic journey and beyond.

“At Valley View University, we do not only train for certificates,” Prof. Ganu stressed. “We train for a life rooted in values and rising in excellence.”

Advice to the New Students

The Vice Chancellor urged the students to take their studies seriously from the very beginning and to develop discipline and strong study habits.

He advised them to attend lectures regularly, manage their time wisely, and make full use of the university’s academic support systems, including lecturers, academic advisors, and the library.

He also warned strongly against academic dishonesty.

“Protect your integrity,” he cautioned. “Avoid cheating, plagiarism, and shortcuts that could destroy your future. Your certificate must represent real learning.”

Prof. Ganu further encouraged students to form productive study groups, maintain respectful communication, and choose friendships that promote personal growth rather than distractions.

Special Message to Different Student Groups

Addressing the various categories of students, the Vice Chancellor offered tailored guidance.

For diploma and first-year undergraduate students, he encouraged them to take responsibility for their learning and build strong academic foundations early.

For master’s students, many of whom combine work, family, and studies, he advised careful planning and urged them to align their research with real-life challenges in their workplaces and communities.

Meanwhile, doctoral students were encouraged to pursue advanced scholarship with discipline, maintain consistent engagement with their supervisors, and uphold the highest standards of ethical research.

Guest Speaker Highlights Importance of Character

The Guest Speaker for the ceremony, Dr. Matilda Obeng Kyere, delivered a powerful message centered on the importance of character and consistent improvement.

She reminded the matriculants that matriculation represents a declaration of their commitment to growth, responsibility, and excellence.

“In a world where shortcuts are celebrated and integrity is sometimes compromised for quick success, being rooted in values is not optional — it is essential,” she said.

Dr. Obeng Kyere emphasized that values such as integrity, discipline, respect, accountability, service, and faith are critical anchors that will guide students’ decisions throughout their lives.

“Your degree will open doors,” she told the students, “but your values will determine how long you remain in the room.”

Excellence as a Habit

The guest speaker also challenged the new students to pursue excellence as a daily habit rather than a one-time achievement.

“Excellence is not perfection,” she explained. “Excellence is consistent improvement. It is choosing to give your best even when the task seems small.”

She encouraged students not to aim for mediocrity but to pursue growth, resilience, and continuous learning despite academic and personal challenges.

Building Ethical Leaders

Both speakers highlighted the importance of balancing competence with strong moral values.

Dr. Obeng Kyere noted that the world needs more than intelligent graduates; it needs ethical leaders and principled professionals who combine knowledge with conscience.

“The world does not only need intelligent graduates,” she said. “The world needs ethical leaders.”

A Journey Begins

As part of the ceremony, the matriculants took the matriculation oath and signed the official register, symbolizing their formal acceptance into the university community and their commitment to uphold the institution’s rules and values.

The event also served as a moment of pride for parents and guardians who were acknowledged for their sacrifices and support in helping the students reach this important milestone.

As the ceremony concluded, the new students were encouraged to embrace the university’s mission and make the most of their academic journey.

“Be rooted in values so your character stays strong,” Prof. Ganu charged the students. “And keep rising in excellence so your results keep improving.”