Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has joined the family of the late Ghanaian academic Professor Jason Atta Kwei Arday, members of the Ghanaian community and British officials at a funeral service in Southwark, United Kingdom, to honour his life and legacy.
The minister attended the service to pay tribute to Prof. Arday, whose achievements as the youngest Black professor appointed at the University of Cambridge and his charitable contributions continue to inspire people across the world.
The service brought together Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK, British Members of Parliament, ministers, the Mayor of London, Cambridge scholars, students of the late professor and other loved ones.
In a statement highlighting the government’s participation, Mr Ablakwa said Ghana remained committed to supporting its citizens wherever they lived.
He said the government and people of Ghana would continue to stand by their compatriots abroad while upholding the values of justice, equality and the creation of a better world.
Prof. Arday was widely recognised for his academic achievements and contributions to social equality and inclusion.
His life and work have continued to inspire generations, particularly through his commitment to widening opportunities and challenging barriers in education.
The minister described the funeral service as deeply moving and unforgettable, paying tribute to the late professor’s vision of a more compassionate society.
He recalled Prof. Arday’s response when asked what he would do to change the world.
“I would take a thread and a needle, and I’d interweave love into our society,” the professor said.
Mr Ablakwa also extended his condolences to the bereaved family, praying for strength and comfort for them during what he described as an extraordinarily difficult time.
