John Dramani Mahama receives honorary doctorate from RUDN University in Moscow

President John Dramani Mahama has been conferred with an honorary doctorate by the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) in Moscow. The ceremony took place nearly 40 years after the President completed his original studies at the institution, making the return a significant personal and diplomatic milestone. He was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Minister of Defence, Kenneth Agyei, and was received by the university's leadership and members of the Ghanaian community in Russia. In his acceptance address, President Mahama reflected on the transformative power of education and the historical ties between Ghana and Russia. He urged African leaders to stay committed to the dreams of the continent’s founding fathers, such as Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Patrice Lumumba, by ensuring that governance delivers justice and quality education to all citizens. The President encouraged the students in attendance to maximize their educational opportunities and maintain a high standard of integrity, reminding them that their skills are essential for the progress of their home communities. The event also highlighted future academic collaborations between the two nations. President Mahama expressed his support for the establishment of a Russian-African studies program and emphasized the importance of technical training, scientific research, and initiatives such as Free Senior High School in Ghana. To mark the occasion, Rector Oleg A. Yastrebov announced the introduction of a new scholarship named after Patrice Lumumba, which will benefit seven students every year. This move is expected to further strengthen the educational partnership and cultural exchange between Ghana and Russia under President Mahama’s administration.