President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his deep respect for Lincoln University despite its decision to withdraw an honorary doctorate that was to be conferred on him.
The President made the remarks during an engagement with the Ghanaian community in Philadelphia on Thursday, March 26, 2026, following the university’s last-minute cancellation of the planned award ceremony.
The decision, according to reports, was influenced by concerns within sections of the university community regarding Mahama’s perceived stance on LGBTQ issues.
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Addressing the development, Mahama stressed that the longstanding historical and cultural ties between Ghana and the institution remain intact and should not be overshadowed by the controversy.
“Whatever disagreements have arisen, for me, Lincoln University holds a special place in my heart. It is where our first President, Kwame Nkrumah, was nurtured intellectually and shaped in his Pan-Africanist struggle. It remains hallowed ground for Ghanaians and an integral part of our history,” he stated.
He emphasised that Ghana’s relationship with the university transcends current disagreements, noting that the institution’s legacy in shaping African leadership remains significant.
“We cannot separate Lincoln University from the story of Ghana, and we will continue to hold the institution in the highest esteem,” Mahama added.