The Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, delivered a stirring and deeply emotional address as Guest of Honour at the 68th Speech and Prize-Giving Day and Homecoming of Okuapeman Senior High School, urging students to uphold discipline, pursue excellence with dedication, and reject the rising wave of shortcuts luring many young people into crime and addiction.
The IGP, an alumnus of Okuapeman SHS from 1980 to 1982, described the invitation as a “rare privilege,” noting that returning to the school that shaped his identity filled him with profound nostalgia and pride.
“I stand before you not to boast, but to remind you that the future leaders of this country are sitting right here. With discipline, dedication and patriotism, you too will rise to serve this nation with honour.”
Reflecting on a Journey of Unexpected Turns
IGP Yohuno shared a personal story that captivated students and alumni alike. Entering Okuapeman as a quiet but determined science student with dreams of becoming a medical doctor, his path was redirected by national upheavals, the 1981 coup, economic distress, and the mass migration of teachers to Nigeria, which created an acute shortage of science educators.
He recalled how external tutors from the University of Ghana, including the renowned Lawyer Yaw Akwesi Sarpong, then a Chemistry tutor, stepped in to fill the gaps.
Despite his passion for medicine, the circumstances prevented him from securing the required grades. He later pivoted into finance, became a Chartered Accountant, and eventually joined the Ghana Police Service.
“Life may not always unfold as you planned, but every experience has a purpose. When one door closes, another opens, sometimes leading you to your true destiny.”
Addressing the Crisis of Quick Success
The IGP did not mince words in confronting what he described as a dangerous trend among Ghana’s youth, the growing obsession with instant wealth.
He listed cybercrime, drug misuse, violent offences, betting and gambling addictions as rising threats destroying lives and careers.
“Some youth borrow money to gamble, lose everything, and sink into depression. Some even attempt suicide. This is not the future we want for our younger generation.”
He cautioned that real success is built on time, patience, and hard work, not shortcuts.
Patriotism in Question, but Not Lost
Speaking passionately about patriotism, the IGP praised the thousands of young people who stand in long queues under the scorching sun to join Ghana’s security services, citing it as evidence of their love for the nation.
However, he expressed sorrow over the tragic El-Wak Stadium stampede during the recent Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise, which claimed six lives.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families. But beyond sorrow, we must act. This tragedy reminds us that we urgently need safer, fairer, and more efficient recruitment systems.”
He called for a thorough review and reform of recruitment processes to prevent future tragedies.
A New Face of Policing
Highlighting major reforms in the Ghana Police Service, the IGP said modern policing now attracts IT experts, engineers, accountants, psychologists, and lawyers, reflecting a shift toward professionalism and intelligence-led policing.
He announced ongoing police diplomacy initiatives, including a landmark partnership with the New York Police Department (NYPD) involving technology-driven policing, counterterrorism, and officer exchange programmes.
“This is the new face of policing, educated, globally connected, and technology-oriented.”
In Praise of Okuapeman’s Values
The IGP commended Okuapeman SHS for upholding the pillars of the day’s theme, discipline, dedication, and patriotism, calling them the very foundation of national development.
He urged teachers, parents, old students, and community leaders to help restore these values among the youth.
A Message to Students: Your Journey Has Just Begun
IGP Yohuno concluded by congratulating all award-winning students and encouraging others to remain focused.
“Whether you are learning a vocation or studying in the classroom, do it with integrity. Embrace discipline, pursue excellence with dedication, and love your country with all your heart.”
He called on every student to rise above distractions, seize opportunities with purpose, and walk confidently toward a future built on values rather than shortcuts.
Paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
