Technology

Virtual University

UG Valedictorian Ends 10-Year Wait With 4.0 FGPA, Urges Shift in Learning and Legacy.

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Ephraim Ayeh Oracca-Tetteh, University of Ghana’s 2024 valedictorian, has urged society to rethink how people learn, live, and leave their mark. He made history by graduating with a 4.0 Final Grade Point Average (FGPA), the university’s first in ten years, despite being visually impaired. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran as part of the Thinkathon anniversary series, Mr. Oracca-Tetteh said his achievement was rooted in deliberate strategies that went beyond memorization. He revealed that he studied over 100 books on learning and applied techniques such as chunking, visualization, and the memory palace to master complex ideas. “Learning is not just storing facts. If you can imagine a concept, you can own it,” he explained. Beyond academics, he emphasized the importance of self-awareness and legacy. Drawing from the Latin phrase memento mori, he added that life is short and that every person must think about the change they leave behind. He also referenced memento homo, which means “I am only human,” stressing the need to accept personal limits while striving for excellence. The scholar advised young people to focus on growth rather than excuses. He encouraged young people to utilize technology as a tool for advancement and to view challenges as opportunities to expand their capabilities. “Be a learner. Put yourself forward. Improve what you have,” he urged. Looking ahead, He announced that his book on imaginative learning, already approved by the National Council on Curriculum and Assessment, will soon be released to help students and educators alike. He added that he hopes his journey demonstrates that determination, the right methods, and faith can open doors once thought impossible. About Springboard, Your Virtual UniversitySpringboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Springboard Channel (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing Thinkathon series brings together thought leaders from various fields to explore the power of ideas in shaping society. By Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

African Architecture Must Blend Tradition and Innovation, Says Dr. Kuukuwa Manful

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Dr. Kuukuwa Manful, Assistant Professor of Architecture at the University of Michigan, has urged Africans to rethink their approach to building by integrating traditional methods with modern materials and technology. According to her, creating sustainable and culturally meaningful spaces requires a balance between professional expertise and community knowledge. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, as part of the ongoing Thinkathon: The Power of Ideas to Shape Society series, Dr. Manful encouraged citizens and professionals alike to reconsider how buildings are designed and maintained. “More of us should be talking to architects before we start our building projects. Listen to your architects, listen to your professionals. They have good, research-based ideas,” she said. “It’s a bit of a problem here that building is very client-driven. Sometimes the architect has no choice but to go along with it. But listen to them.” Drawing lessons from history, Dr. Manful noted that traditional earth buildings were communally maintained after each rainy season, strengthening community bonds. “Even though we may not return to that fully, our concrete buildings still lack proper maintenance,” she added. She also expressed concern about the disappearance of courtyards in modern architecture. “Courtyards are semi-indoor, outdoor spaces that regulate temperature, provide social spaces, and connect people. They are disappearing from our architecture,” she observed. Drawing on her practical work, Dr. Manful emphasized community interventions such as playgrounds, reading nooks, housing consultations, and advocacy for affordable housing. “Affordable housing in our cities will lead to freedom—freedom to experiment for young people, comfort for older people, and a foundation for solving many urban challenges,” she said. About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Springboardzone (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing Thinkathon series convenes leading thinkers and professionals from diverse fields to explore how ideas can shape society. By Faustina Yeboah