The Bissa Chief of Gomoa Fetteh, Kir Mustapha Dawuda Lengani, has officially become the Patron of the Bissa Students Union of the University of Education, Winneba, following a unanimous endorsement at a gathering on the school’s North Campus.
Leading a five-member delegation to the union’s first general meeting of the semester on Saturday, June 29, 2024, the chief presented this remarkable proposal to support the education of Bissa students across tertiary institutions in the region, which was met with a huge welcome.
He embarked on the 38km journey to Winneba upon the invitation of the Students Union, during which he also expressed willingness to extend similar support to other Bissa student bodies in the region, including the University of Cape Coast (UCC).
Addressing the gathered students, Chief Lengani emphasized the critical importance of education in today’s world and the need to develop stronger ties.
“Your academic success will bring honor not only to yourselves but also to your parents and to me as your potential patron,” he said in a statement delivered on his behalf by the National Youth Forum Coordinator.
“I am ready to support any of the student bodies in this region, including the University of Cape Coast and other tertiary institutions.
“You can count on me anytime,” he told the audience, reinforcing his commitment to their welfare and success.
The Chief further promised to embark on similar visits to other tertiary institutions in the region to ensure stronger ties with the student bodies, ensuring they benefit from his benevolence.
“I would love to see the development of our students front and center in our initiatives,” he said.
“I am committed to prioritizing their growth and success in all our endeavors.
“So it is up to the other student bodies to ensure they can form a stronger union for the little support I have for them.”
Over 30 students made it to the short-notice but all-important meeting, bringing together male and female students, Muslims and non-Muslims, to contemplate the development of their fraternity both on and off campus. It offered some the chance to meet their fellow Bissas for the first time.
This promise of accessibility and support was particularly meaningful to the students, many of whom are far from their homes and families.
Chief Lengani also emphasized the significance of the Zekula agenda, encouraging students to actively engage with this initiative.
“Unity is the foundation of our strength as a community. By coming together, you not only support each other but also preserve and promote our rich cultural heritage,” he said.
“Remember, in unity lies our ability to face challenges and create opportunities for generations to come.”
The University of Winneba has long been recognized as the tertiary institution with the strongest Bissa Students Union with the chief’s visit adding an extra layer of excitement to the day’s proceedings.
A particularly memorable moment came during the self-introduction session, where students mentioned their clan appellations, which revealed previously unknown ties between attendees and deepened their sense of kinship and community.
Chief Lengani’s delegation included four key figures: Mohammed Abdul Malik Guerni, the National Deputy Secretary of the Bissa Development Association (BDA) and National Coordinator of the Bissa Youth Forum; Shaibu Adam Alale, Chairman of the BDA Greater Accra; Salifu Issah, an aide to the chief; and the chief himself.
Saturday’s event created a palpable sense of optimism and excitement among the students, with many expressing their gratitude for the chief’s interest and support, viewing it as a significant step towards preserving their cultural identity while pursuing academic excellence.
The union leaders pledged to work closely with Chief Lengani to implement programs that would benefit both the students and the wider Bissa community.