President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed the deep respect Ghanaians hold for Lincoln University despite the institution’s last-minute decision to withdraw plans to confer an honorary doctorate on him over his perceived stance on LGBTQ issues.
The cancellation, which occurred just days before the scheduled ceremony, followed concerns raised within the university community regarding Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill currently before Parliament.
Speaking during an engagement with the Ghanaian community in Philadelphia on Thursday, March 26, 2026, President Mahama emphasised the enduring historical ties between Ghana and the Pennsylvania-based institution.
“Whatever disagreements have arisen, for me, Lincoln University holds a special place in my heart. It is where our first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, was nurtured intellectually and shaped in his Pan-Africanist struggle. It remains hallowed ground for Ghanaians and an integral part of our history,” he said.
He added that the relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University would continue to thrive beyond the current controversy.
“We cannot separate Lincoln University from the story of Ghana, and we will continue to hold the institution in the highest esteem,” President Mahama stated.
Lincoln University, alma mater of Ghana’s founding President Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has long been regarded as a symbol of Pan-African education and intellectual development. The university had initially announced plans to honour President Mahama for his global leadership and contributions to reparative justice, but reversed the decision following internal objections linked to Ghana’s proposed anti-LGBTQ legislation.
The Ghana Embassy in Washington DC had earlier expressed disappointment over the development, describing the timing as surprising and regrettable.