Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has joined family members, members of the Ghanaian community in the United Kingdom and British dignitaries to honour the memory of Professor Jason Atta Kwei Arday at a memorial service in Southwark, London.
The service brought together the late professor’s family, Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK, British Members of Parliament, ministers, the Mayor of London, Cambridge scholars, former students and loved ones to celebrate his life and contributions.
In a statement reflecting on the gathering, Mr. Ablakwa described the event as “a deeply moving and unforgettable service in honour of the memory of Professor Jason Atta Kwei Arday in Southwark, UK.”
He said his participation was in fulfilment of a pledge to stand with the bereaved family and the Ghanaian community in honouring the late academic.
“In keeping with our pledge, last night, I joined the family of the departed Prof. Arday, the Ghanaian community, our High Commissioner in London, British MPs, Ministers, Mayor of London, Cambridge scholars and Prof’s students and loved ones to pay our respects and honour his inspiring legacy,” the minister stated.
Professor Arday earned international recognition for his academic achievements, including becoming the youngest Black professor appointed at the University of Cambridge.
His work and charitable contributions have made him an inspiration to many, particularly those seeking to overcome barriers in education and academia.
Mr. Ablakwa noted that the professor’s accomplishments and commitment to charitable causes would continue to influence future generations.
“Jason Arday’s accomplishments as the youngest Black professor appointed at the University of Cambridge and his widely appreciated charitable contributions will continue to inspire generations,” he said.
The minister’s tribute highlighted the importance of preserving the late professor’s contributions to education and society while celebrating the values he represented.
Mr. Ablakwa also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Ghanaians living outside the country, emphasising the importance of maintaining strong connections with citizens in the diaspora.
“The Government and People of Ghana will continue to stand by our compatriots everywhere they are in the world,” he stated.
He added that Ghana remained committed to the principles of justice, equality and building a better society.
“As we do so, we profess our commitment to justice, equality and the creation of a new world,” the minister said.
One of the most memorable aspects of Professor Arday’s legacy is his vision for creating a more compassionate society.
Recalling the professor’s response when asked what he would do to change the world, Mr. Ablakwa quoted his words:
“I would take a thread and a needle, and I’d interweave love into our society.”
The statement captures the values of compassion, inclusion and human connection that the minister said should continue to inspire society.
Mr. Ablakwa also extended his condolences to the bereaved family, asking for strength and comfort for them during their difficult period.
“May the Good Lord grant his family fortitude in this extraordinarily difficult time,” he said.
The memorial service served as an occasion for family, friends, colleagues and members of the Ghanaian community to celebrate Professor Arday’s life and reflect on the enduring impact of his work.
His achievements in academia and charitable service remain an important part of his legacy, while his message of love continues to offer inspiration to those committed to building a more inclusive world.
