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| Yagbowura Jewu Soale Biikunuto |
Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I has reaffirmed his commitment to education and cultural preservation by funding the admission fees of some 54 students into various tertiary institutions through the Bii-Kunuto Educational Fund.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo to celebrate this milestone, the Yagbonwura described the initiative as a bold step towards breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for the youth in the Savannah Region and beyond.
“This significant milestone is more than a mere act of financial support; it is a testament to our Kingdom’s commitment to empowering the youth and fostering a future built on education,” he said.
A notable majority of the beneficiaries are pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Gonja Education at the University of Education, Winneba.
The Yagbonwura highlighted this as a deliberate effort to revitalize the Gonja Education Department, which has faced challenges due to low enrollment and waning interest.
“The Gonja language is more than a means of communication; it is the lifeblood of our heritage… By supporting these students, we are safeguarding our culture and ensuring that our language continues to thrive,” he stated.
The initiative also reflects the Kingdom's dedication to equity and inclusion.
Several underprivileged youth were among the beneficiaries, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their academic aspirations.
The Yagbonwura emphasized that the support is rooted in the values of the Gonja Kingdom, which prioritizes community care and inclusivity.
Addressing the beneficiaries, the King urged them to embrace their roles as ambassadors of the Gonja Kingdom.
“Work hard, pursue excellence, and let your success serve as a beacon of hope for others. "You are custodians of our legacy,” he encouraged the beneficiary students.
The Yagbonwura also expressed gratitude to notable contributors who have supported the fund, including President John Dramani Mahama, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and other stakeholders such as MTN Ghana, the National Investment Bank, and the Navro-Pio, Pe Denis Aneakwoa Balinia Adda Asagpaare II.
“This collective effort has transformed lives and reignited hope.
"Together, we have shown that we can overcome challenges and rewrite the story of our Kingdom,” he remarked.
As the ceremony concluded, the King called on all stakeholders to remain steadfast in their support of the Bii-Kunuto Educational Fund.
“May we continue to walk this path together, guided by the Almighty, and may this Fund remain a shining symbol of progress, unity, and compassion,” he said.
The initiative marks a significant step in the Gonja Kingdom’s efforts to empower its youth and preserve its cultural heritage, underscoring the transformative power of education in building a brighter future for all.
Some of the beneficiary students praised the overlord for the support and assured him of using the money for the intended purpose.
Mr Dramani Dari, a lecturer at the Winneba University Of Education also added his voice in congratulating the overlord for the kind gesture. He said the Gonja department of the university nearly collapsed as many students opted for different courses instead studying of learning the Gonja language.
He added that the support of the Yagbonwura will go a long way to help the beneficiary students in the payment of their fees and used the opportunity to appeal for more support across Gonjaland to sustain the teaching and learning of Gonja in the university.
