The Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons (GCPS) has held its annual Leadership Symposium, spotlighting the future of medical leadership in Ghana while honoring two of the nation’s most distinguished figures in medicine — Prof. Afua Hesse and Prof. David Ofori-Adjei.
This year’s event focused on the role of visionary leadership in transforming healthcare systems across the continent. The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Prof. Hesse, Ghana’s first female pediatric surgeon, and Prof. Ofori-Adjei, a leading clinical pharmacologist and health policy expert.
In an emotional address, Prof. Afua Hesse expressed deep appreciation for the honor.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” she said. “To be recognized by one’s peers in this way is incredibly humbling. My journey has been driven by a commitment to children’s health and to mentoring young doctors, especially women. Seeing so many young professionals in the room tonight gives me great hope for the future.”
Prof. Hesse, who has broken multiple barriers in Ghana’s medical field, was applauded for her decades-long dedication to improving pediatric care and championing women in medicine.
Prof. David Ofori-Adjei, also visibly moved, reflected on his own path in clinical pharmacology and health leadership.
“This recognition is not mine alone,” he said. “It belongs to all the teams I’ve worked with, the students I’ve taught, and the patients whose stories shaped my thinking. Research and policy are only as meaningful as the lives they impact — and I’m proud to have played a part in advancing care on this continent.”
Prof. Ofori-Adjei was lauded for his pivotal contributions to healthcare systems strengthening and for his influential work in medical research and public health policy.
The symposium brought together healthcare professionals, academics, and policy makers in a robust discussion about the qualities of effective leadership in medicine. Speakers emphasized the need for ethical, innovative, and community-driven approaches to solving the healthcare challenges facing Africa today.
The event concluded with a call for continued mentorship, investment in medical education, and stronger collaboration across the healthcare sector.
 has held its annual Leadership Symposium, spotlighting the future of medical leadership in Ghana while honoring two of the nation’s most distinguished figures in medicine — Prof. Afua Hesse and Prof. David Ofori-Adjei.){kind=link}