Managing Director of GCB, Farihan Alhassan, Visits KNUST and Inspires Mathematics Students
The Managing Director of GCB Bank and distinguished alumnus of the Department of Mathematics, Farihan Alhassan, recently paid a visit to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). His visit served as an opportunity to reconnect with his alma mater, express gratitude to his former lecturers, and inspire current students pursuing mathematics-related fields.
He was hosted and congratulated immensely by the Head of Mathematics Department, Very Rev. Prof. William Obeng-Denteh and Senior Members.
In his speech, Mr. Alhassan expressed deep appreciation to the faculty members who played a pivotal role in his academic journey. He specifically acknowledged Prof. Joseph Ackora-Prah and Prof. S.K. Appiah for their unwavering dedication to teaching and mentorship. He commended their exceptional lecturing techniques, particularly in an era when access to computers was limited. Despite these constraints, they instilled in their students' strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which he credited as a key factor in his professional success.
Reflecting on his academic path, Mr. Alhassan shared a compelling story about how he initially found himself studying mathematics. He admitted that while he did not plan on pursuing a career in the field, it turned out to be one of the most rewarding decisions of his life, playing a pivotal role in his career trajectory and ultimately leading him to his current position as Managing Director of GCB Bank.
Speaking at the event, Prof. S.K. Appiah congratulated Mr. Alhassan on attaining a prestigious leadership position at GCB Bank, emphasizing that his achievements serve as a source of inspiration for both faculty and students. He further commended Mr. Alhassan’s continuous support for students and the department, urging him to extend his contributions beyond financial assistance by actively mentoring young mathematicians and advocating for the subject’s significance in various fields.
Dr. Onans also praised Mr. Alhassan for his willingness to support the department whenever called upon, acknowledging his responsiveness and dedication. He described him as a true ambassador of mathematics, whose success story exemplifies the importance of critical thinking and analytical skills in professional and leadership roles.
Prof. Ackora-Prah expressed profound excitement and pride in Mr. Alhassan’s career trajectory. He emphasized how the rigorous training in analytical thinking and abstract algebra during his time at KNUST played a crucial role in shaping his ability to retain complex information and perform top-level analyses. Encouraging students to remain dedicated to their studies, Prof. Acquah-Prah urged them to be proud ambassadors of mathematics, stressing that the discipline is fundamental to various industries and a key driver of innovation and success.
The Head of Mathematics Department presented a citation to him on behalf of the Department.
As a demonstration of his commitment to giving back to his alma mater, Mr. Alhassan pledged to donate 40 laptops to the Department of Mathematics. This donation aims to enhance digital learning, research, and computational analysis, equipping students with essential technological resources to excel in their studies.
