Sir Sam Jonah outlines 10-point blueprint to shape Ghana’s future leaders

Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Sir Sam Jonah, shared a 10-point plan. This plan aims to guide young graduates in becoming ethical leaders. He spoke at Academic City University on June 7, 2025.

Sir Sam Jonah urged graduates to focus on values and service. He emphasized ethical leadership over personal wealth or titles. Here are his 10 keys for transforming young people into nation builders:

1. Build Character for Integrity
Character is essential for true leadership. Degrees and connections matter less without integrity. The future will test your honesty and ethics. Always prioritize character; it is your most valuable asset.

2. Discover and Focus on Your Purpose
Leadership is not just a position; it's a mindset. Find what drives you and stay motivated. Your purpose should guide every decision you make.

3. Determine Your Values and Uphold Them
Every leader needs a set of core values. Integrity, honesty, and accountability are crucial traits. Be someone others can trust and respect.

4. Build Relationships That Matter
Networking is vital for success in any field. Your classmates today could be your partners tomorrow. Invest time in building genuine relationships.

5. Serve Before You Lead
Great leaders start by serving others first. Understand the challenges people face before leading them. Service builds empathy and prepares you for leadership roles.

6. Embrace Both Failure and Success with Humility
Failure is part of the journey to success; learn from it. Stay grounded when you succeed; don’t let it change who you are.

7. Be Adaptable — Never Stop Learning
The world changes rapidly; adaptability is key to survival. Keep learning new skills to stay relevant in your field.

8. The Call of This Generation: Youth Leadership Now
Young leaders are emerging globally; take inspiration from them! Public service requires integrity, humility, and accountability.

9. The STEM Mandate — The Engine of National Transformation
Nations thrive through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Ghana must prioritize STEM education for national development.

10. Final Reflections: Future-ready Leadership: Service, Not Position
Serve with purpose in whatever role you find yourself in today.

Sir Sam Jonah concluded by encouraging graduates to build companies with integrity and communities with compassion.
He believes in their potential to make a difference in Ghana's future.