General News of Saturday, 26 April 2025
Source: www.ghanawebbers.com
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II reflected on the successes of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation. The Foundation is celebrating 25 years of impacting lives in Ghana. It was established when Otumfuo ascended to the Golden Stool 26 years ago. His vision was to advance Asanteman and Ghana through dignity, resilience, and opportunity.
In its early days, the Foundation supported 600 students in three public universities. Over time, Otumfuo expanded its vision with transformative projects across various sectors. In 2009, he consolidated all efforts into the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation. Now, it operates in education, health, water and sanitation, culture, and heritage.
Otumfuo stated that this re-organization aimed for unity and efficiency. He expressed pride in their achievements as both humbling and inspiring. Speaking at an event on April 25, 2025, he recounted the Foundation’s journey over the years.
He noted that ancestors fought for land through strength but emphasized a different battle today. This battle is against ignorance, disease, poverty, and disconnection from cultural roots. To preserve heritage for future generations, he collaborated with visionary individuals to establish the NGO.
Months into his reign, he initiated the Otumfuo Education Fund with support from prominent figures. Thousands of students have received full scholarships through this initiative. An additional 650 young people benefited from packages covering school fees and supplies.
The King highlighted achievements in educational infrastructure as well. With World Bank support, over 740 school structures were built or renovated nationwide. They constructed classroom blocks and donated desks to schools in deprived areas.
Reflecting on their journey, His Majesty thanked past and present Board members and partners. He acknowledged that their commitment made these accomplishments possible. The Foundation also launched an Endowment Fund for sustainable growth of its projects.
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor launched this Fund aiming to raise ₵50 million over five years. The Board Chairman stated that it would help meet increasing scholarship demands. Otumfuo called for collaboration to end poverty's barrier to education in Ghana.
He reminded attendees that their contributions could create lasting legacies for children’s education. He urged everyone to ensure no child is denied education due to poverty. Support should extend to teachers and clinics while investing in a harmonious future for Asanteman and Ghana.
Donors were recognized based on their contributions with certificates and plaques awarded accordingly. Bronze contributors included Unijay and Fidelity Bank among others; Silver sponsors included AMC Development; Gold sponsors included ECOBANK Ghana; Diamond sponsors included Attachy Construction Limited.
Former Board Members received Distinguished Service Awards for their leadership impact during the event attended by notable figures like Lady Julia Osei Tutu and former President Kufuor.