Addressing graduates at Valley View University's commencement ceremony, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, underscored the pivotal role of honesty and hard work in shaping the future of young professionals.

Mr Agyapong, who served as the guest speaker, went beyond the traditional emphasized on academic achievement, asserting that degrees alone don't guarantee success in the evolving landscape.

In his speech, Mr Agyapong shared insights into the diverse paths to success, citing examples of individuals who thrived despite not achieving top academic accolades.

He urged the graduates to recognize that their academic certificates would truly become valuable assets when coupled with a steadfast commitment to hard work and honesty.

“I have gone through the mix, I have seen some students making it with third class. I want to assure you that whether you are third class, second class upper or even lower, in the school of life, your first class is just two letters which I call H and H; that is honesty and hard work.

“These two will determine your success in the future. It is not the degree you acquire today that will work towards the future. If you don’t work towards the future, your certificate will be in your room forever,” he stated.

He continued: “Today, we are all happy for you as parents, teachers and all. Your parents are happy because you are no longer going to be their burden. The moment you go home and remove the gown, they will say to you, the world is waiting for you. They are not happy because you’ve gone through four years of first degree and another two years of masters and that is the end of life. The real part of life lies ahead of you."

Expanding on this theme, the Assin Central MP delved into the broader concept of success, emphasizing that the journey ahead is shaped not only by the degrees earned but by the character, dedication, and principles instilled in individuals. He challenged the graduates to view their commencement as a launchpad, not a final destination, and to recognize the profound influence of qualities like honesty and hard work in navigating the complexities of life.

Moreover, Mr Agyapong articulated three fundamental qualities—patriotism, honesty, and discipline—as essential for survival, particularly in the local context.

He motivated the graduates to become catalysts for positive change by transforming their mindsets, attitudes, and perceptions of life. Emphasizing that change begins with individual responsibility, he urged them not to limit their aspirations to academic achievements but to embrace personal development and societal contribution.

“Three things we need to survive, especially in this part of the world, is to be patriotic. We need to be honest and we need to be disciplined. I know you all are calling for change but the change is you. You need to change first, not only do politicians have to change.

“You need to change your mindset, attitude and the way you perceive life. When you take this advice, you will be a different human being. When they mentioned my name, you all applauded now, I entreat you all to take your destiny into your own hand. Don't let the gown be the end of your life and think you have achieved everything,” he stated.

Despite Agyapong's political endeavors, including a bid in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries, where he contested against Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his message at Valley View University transcended political boundaries.

It focused on instilling values and principles that extend beyond academic realms, offering the graduates a broader perspective on the journey that lies ahead.