Guest Speaker at the first session of Day Two of the University of Ghana’s February 2026 Congregation, acclaimed poet, writer and media practitioner Seyiram Apiorkor, has advised graduates not to focus solely on money as they begin life after university.
She cautioned them against measuring success only by financial gain, stressing that while money is important, it should not be the only driving force behind their decisions.
“Money matters, security matters, dignity matters, but money must not become the only currency that we recognize,” she said.
Apiorkor explained that some of the most valuable rewards in life cannot be monetized.
“Some of the most powerful currencies that you will ever earn do not come with price tags — trust, reputation, your network, your skill, your credibility, your purpose,” she stated.
According to her, these intangible qualities may not immediately reflect in one’s bank account, but they grow over time and significantly shape long-term success.
“You cannot always raise an invoice for these things, but they do compound, they add up,” she noted.
She further encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities that stretch them beyond comfort, even when financial reward is not immediate.
“Exposure is not the only travel. It’s not because you’ll be paid for it that you should look to do it, but because it stretches you beyond the limits of a normal nine to five or your normal working hours,” she said.
Apiorkor concluded by urging the graduands to recognize value beyond income and to think about how their growth can impact society.
“I’m saying learn to recognize when beyond money you are gaining something for your advancement, but also something that you can give back to society,” she added.
–
Story by Erica Odeenyin Odoom | univers.ug.edu.gh
