Valedictorian for the University of Ghana School of Law (UGSoL) 2024 Class, Kassim Dion has encouraged her peers to see graduation as an avenue to begin a new life journey rather than ending one.
On Saturday, 10th August, the UG Schools of Medicine and Law celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2024 in a ceremony filled with pride, reflection, and hope for the future. The event marked the culmination of years of rigorous academic training, challenges, and triumphs for the graduating students, who are now poised to make their mark in the legal profession.
A highlight of the ceremony was the valedictory speech delivered by Dion Kassim, a distinguished graduate who represented her cohort with an FGPA of 3.89. In her speech, Dion eloquently captured the essence of the journey that she and her fellow graduates had undertaken, from the initial excitement of gaining admission to the Law School to the moments of doubt and struggle that tested their resolve.
Speaking candidly about the challenges of law school, she acknowledged the uncertainty that many felt, particularly when faced with complex cases and difficult exams. However, she emphasized that these experiences had only strengthened their resilience, sharpened their minds, and prepared them to achieve their dreams of becoming future advocates and defenders of justice.
“But the journey does not end today. We have our futures ahead of us. As we walk out of this room today, let us hold on strongly to the dreams that caused us to choose the law and never give up no matter how difficult it becomes. It is our duty to use our knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact, to stand up for what is right, and to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
A notable moment in Dion’s speech was her recognition of the inaugural cohort of Post First Degree LL.B evening program students who graduated alongside their peers. She commended them for their dedication in balancing work, family life, and school, noting that their efforts had not gone unnoticed.
Dion also expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors, families, friends, and lecturers who supported the graduates throughout their journey making this significant achievement possible.
“Law school has been a humbling experience, to say the least. Oftentimes, we had to take a second look at our grades and wonder if they were really ours. If only our family and friends outside who began calling us ‘Lawyer’ knew what was going on in our MIS. Yet, we forged on and refused to be discouraged. When the going got tough, we picked ourselves up and worked harder, knowing that one day it would all be worth it, and we would be sitting in the very seats we are seated in now.”
“I also want to congratulate the School’s inaugural cohort of Post First Degree LL.B evening programme students graduating with us today. You have worked tirelessly to balance work, family life, and school. Although it has not been easy, you have reached the finish line, and your efforts have not gone unnoticed.”
During her conclusion, Dion reminded her fellow graduates that their journey in the legal career path does not end with graduation, but rather starts anew. She emphasized the responsibility that comes with the legal profession and encouraged her fellow graduates to use their knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact on society.
“Even as I bring this speech to an end, and even as we leave this place, let us be reminded that graduation is not the end, it is just the beginning. I leave you with the words of Minor Myers Jr. : ‘Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good’.”
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Story by: Sandra Ankomah | univers.ug.edu.gh
