The Association of Students with Special Needs (ASSN), University of Cape Coast (UCC) has marked the 2025 edition of its annual Awareness Week.

The event was dubbed “Unlocking Potentials, Embracing Diversity: Achieving Academic Excellence Through Technology and Innovation.”

The Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto, who was the guest speaker, spoke on the topic, "Full Participation and Equality: The Call for New Approaches to Assess Progress and Evaluate Outcomes".

Highlighting the importance of inclusive progress, Prof. Aheto, emphasized that engaging with diverse communities is key to generating lasting solutions to teething social challenges. He called on the government, civil society, and educational institutions to come together to ensure no one is left behind.

A major highlight of the occasion was the official launch of the Boohene Legacy Award Scheme, named in honour of Mr. Kwame Boohene, a retired Librarian known for his support for students with disabilities. The award will recognize the best male and female graduating students with disabilities each year during the University’s graduation ceremonies.

Pro VC-UCC, Prof. Denis Aheto (middle), with two students of UCC

Mr. Boohene, in a remark, expressed gratitude for the recognition and promised to continue supporting the award scheme.

The launch was officiated by the Chairperson of the Awareness Week Committee, Mr. Benjamin Anan, who noted that the award scheme was a step towards celebrating excellence and resilience. 

“This is not just about awards, it’s about recognizing effort, inspiring others, and affirming that ability transcends disability,” he said.

The Dehiahemaa of the Oguaa Traditional Council, Prof. Nana Ekua Suapim Nyaniba, chaired the occasion. She applauded the organizers for choosing a theme that resonates with current affairs in the nation.

The Dean of Students, Prof. Daniel Apaak, commended the initiative and expressed his excitement to be part of the transformative journey. He assured the ASSN members that his office doors were always open to ensure the welfare and growth of every student. 

Mr. Kwame Boohene (L), a retired Librarian, presenting a citation of honour for the Omanhen of Oguaa to the Dehiahemaa of the Oguaa Traditional Council, Prof. Nana Ekua Suapim Nyaniba

The event also featured a technology showcase by Mr. Samuel Asante, who has developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool called Chill Learn AI aimed at improving the academic life of persons with disability. The app includes voice-activated learning tools for subjects like English and Mathematics. He urged the students to embrace technology as a tool for empowerment. 

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC