The Department of European Languages at the University of Ghana has honoured Dr. Kweku Asinah Bilson for his outstanding contribution to the teaching and promotion of the Russian language at the University.
The citation was presented to him after his speech at the 2026 Russian Language Day Celebration, held at the Reginald Amonoo Building on Friday, June 5, 2026.
According to the citation, Dr. Asinah Bilson’s journey with the University of Ghana and the Russian Section began in 1964 when he became one of the first students to study the Russian language at the University. He later pursued his Master’s degree and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Moscow, then the Soviet Union.
In 1972, he joined the University of Ghana as a lecturer in the Russian Section and later rose to the rank of Senior Lecturer. Beyond his academic work, he served as Senior Tutor of Akuafo Hall from 1982 to 1995 and as Dean of Students from 1994 to 2002.
Although he retired during the 2002–2003 academic year, Dr. Bilson continued to serve the University. He undertook a five-year post-retirement contract beginning in the 2003–2004 academic year and subsequently taught Russian as a part-time lecturer for a further 17 years.
The Department praised his dedication, excellence, humility and unwavering commitment to the teaching and promotion of the Russian language at the University of Ghana for over five decades, noting that he has impacted generations of students and colleagues. He was also recognised as a mentor, father figure and source of inspiration to many within the University community.
Receiving the honour, Dr. Asinah Bilson expressed his surprise and gratitude to the Department for the recognition and thanked the organisers for the gesture.
The citation described the award as a celebration of his remarkable legacy and invaluable contribution to the Russian Section and the University of Ghana.
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Story by Emmanuella Ntowbea Marbell | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
