09/09/2024
**Holistic Counselling & Coaching Institute's 3rd Graduation Ceremony: Celebrating Growth and Compassion**
We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the 3rd edition of the Holistic Counselling & Coaching Institute's Graduation Ceremony, which took place on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at the Calvary Baptist Church in Shiashie, Accra. The ceremony was held under the inspiring theme *“Empowering Hearts and Minds: Celebrating Growth and Compassion,”* emphasizing the Institute's commitment to developing counsellors who serve their communities with empathy and wisdom.
This year, a total of 66 students proudly graduated with the Lay Practitioner Certificate in Counselling, a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout their studies. Each graduate is now equipped with essential counselling skills, ready to make a positive impact in their respective communities. These graduates have been trained to provide guidance in a variety of areas, including premarital and marital counselling, grief and loss counselling, addiction and trauma counselling, and much more.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Rev. Dr. Fred Deegbe, who served as the Special Guest of Honor. Rev. Dr. Deegbe, a renowned figure in the field of counselling and spiritual leadership, delivered a keynote address that deeply resonated with both graduates and attendees. His speech was thought-provoking and inspiring, encouraging the new graduates to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained not only for personal success but also to serve and uplift others in their communities. He highlighted the importance of compassion in counselling, emphasizing that true counsellors are those who are able to connect deeply with those they help and provide hope and guidance.
Rev. Dr. Deegbe’s message left a lasting impression on the graduates. Many of them expressed their gratitude for his wise counsel and vowed to carry the principles of compassion, empathy, and personal growth into their professional lives. His words served as a reminder that counselling is not just about solving problems, but about empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges and find healing.
In addition to the graduates, we also want to extend our sincerest thanks to our esteemed faculty and staff. Their tireless efforts, dedication, and commitment to excellence were instrumental in the success of this event. From academic instruction to behind-the-scenes planning, their hard work ensured that the ceremony ran smoothly and was a memorable experience for all involved. The faculty has been a pillar of support throughout the students' journey, providing guidance, mentorship, and the tools necessary for success in the field of counselling.
We would also like to acknowledge the contribution of our internship staff, who assisted as ushers and protocol officers during the ceremony. Their professionalism and dedication helped to create an orderly and welcoming environment for guests, making the day even more special.
Beyond the graduation ceremony, we are also immensely grateful for the generous financial support that has been provided for the office building of the Holistic Counselling & Coaching Institute. The contributions made by students, faculty, and donors will help secure the future of the Institute and allow us to continue offering high-quality counselling education to future cohorts. This project will enable us to enhance our services and extend our reach to more individuals seeking counselling support and training.
As we reflect on the ceremony, we are reminded of the importance of the work that our graduates will do. The theme of this year’s graduation, *“Empowering Hearts and Minds: Celebrating Growth and Compassion,”* serves as a guiding principle for the journey ahead. It emphasizes that, beyond academic achievements, the true impact of counselling lies in the ability to foster growth and healing in others. Our graduates are now equipped to empower hearts and minds, helping individuals and families overcome life’s challenges and discover new paths to well-being.
As these newly certified Lay Practitioners step into their roles as counsellors, coaches, and mentors, we encourage them to remember the words of John C. Maxwell: *“Success is knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds that benefit others.”* This quote reflects the heart of our mission at the Institute — to train individuals who will not only grow personally but also contribute meaningfully to their communities.
In conclusion, we are incredibly proud of our graduates and the journeys they have embarked upon. We look forward to seeing the remarkable work they will do as they serve their communities with compassion, empathy, and professionalism. Congratulations once again to the Class of 2024!
