Stories and facts
With a wealth of knowledge and experience, he has held various leadership positions and continues to inspire change and development in his homeland. This article delves into the life and achievements of this remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to making Ghana a better place.
Stephen Adei's journey to excellence began in Hwiremoase, a village in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Born to Kwaku Adei and Abena Pomaa, he received his primary education at Hwiremoase Methodist Primary School and a nearby United Middle School in Brofuyedru. He was the fourth of seven surviving male children in his family.
His commitment to education led him to obtain a four-year Teacher's Certificate in 1964 from the Sefwi Wiawso Training College. However, he didn't stop there; Adei pursued further studies, privately earning London University Ordinary and Advanced Level General Certificates in Education and high school equivalent qualifications in three and a half years.
In 1968, Adei enrolled at the University of Ghana, where he studied Economics, Sociology, and Geography. Remarkably, he excelled in all three first-year subjects, later completing a BSc Honours program in Economics. His thirst for knowledge drove him to Strathclyde, where he earned a Master's degree in Development Economics. He further solidified his academic prowess with a PhD in International Economics from the University of Sydney.
His academic journey also included studies in theology, marketing, and company secretaryship, making him a versatile scholar with a rich educational background.
Adei's career is a testament to his dedication to public service and education. Between 2000 and 2008, he served as the Director-General and First Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). Under his leadership, GIMPA underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming self-sufficient financially and a model for public sector reform in Africa.
His international experience included roles such as the Head of the UN System in post-Apartheid South Africa, United Nations Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Namibia, and Senior Economist at various prestigious organizations. He also taught Economics and Leadership at several universities, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of leaders.
Adei's dedication extended beyond academia. He held numerous positions in Ghana, including Chairman of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, President of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (Ghana), and membership in various councils and boards. His influence was felt across sectors, from education to finance to public administration.
As a prolific writer, Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei has authored and co-authored more than 25 books and numerous articles. Some of his well-known books include "Leadership and Nation Building," "The Promise of Leadership: The Chances of Ghana Having the Leadership to Move the Country from Third to First World," and "Twelve Keys to Financial Success." His commitment to education and leadership is evident in his written works.
Stephen Adei's personal life is characterized by a strong partnership with his wife, Mrs. Georgina Adei, with whom he co-founded the Ghana Christian International High Schools. Their dedication to education extends to a nine-volume series designed to teach literacy to young children.
Looking ahead, Professor Emeritus Adei envisions a future where Ghana is a fully developed first-world country. His passion for education and leadership led him to embark on the journey to establish a Ghana Institute of Governance and Leadership. He also aims to promote the concept of a "Zero-tolerant Millionaires Club" among young professionals, emphasizing the possibility of achieving both wealth and moral integrity.
Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei's life is a remarkable story of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Ghana's development. His contributions to education, economics, and public service have left an indelible mark on the nation. As he continues his journey, he remains a beacon of inspiration and hope for Ghana's future.
