Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, stirred laughter and reflection during the UEW Public Lecture Series on Friday, April 11, 2025, as he shared a few personal and heartfelt observations before diving into his keynote message.
“I remember the last time I was in this same hall. It was a very charged atmosphere,” he began. “At the time, I was still trying to be retained as the Member of Parliament for Busa South, with the hope that my party would be given the mandate. Today, I’m back as the MP and Deputy Minister for Education.”
Dr. Apaak did not shy away from light moments either. Recalling his brief exchange with the Vice Chancellor of UEW, he shared: “When we met, the first thing he said to me was, ‘This is an academic institution – no politics.’ And I agree,” he noted, drawing chuckles from the crowd.
In an even lighter tone, he revealed a humorous personal aspiration: “I have always wanted to be like my senior brother, Professor Lumumba.
“When I grow up, I want to be like him,” he said, pausing before adding, “Thankfully, I just discovered that we both enjoy drinking coffee in the morning.”
He also seized the opportunity to commend UEW for their punctuality. “I’ve attended many events where I had to wait 30 minutes, even an hour before things began. But here, you were right on time. I must commend the Vice Chancellor, the lecturers, the management, and the students.”
