Mahama Reaffirms Respect for Lincoln University Despite Withdrawn Honor

Ghana's former president says the university remains "hallowed ground" despite canceling plans to award him an honorary degree.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 7:09am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his deep respect for Lincoln University, even after the institution withdrew its plan to award him an honorary doctorate. Mahama emphasized the university's historic role in shaping Ghana's founding leadership, particularly in nurturing the country's first president, Kwame Nkrumah. Despite the disagreement over the withdrawn honor, Mahama stated that the enduring ties between Ghana and Lincoln University cannot be separated.

Why it matters

The withdrawal of the honorary degree from Mahama has raised questions about the university's decision-making process and its relationship with Ghana. Mahama's reaffirmation of his respect for the institution underscores the deep historical and cultural connections between Ghana and Lincoln University, which has played a significant role in the country's development.

The details

Lincoln University reportedly canceled the planned honor for Mahama just days before the ceremony, following internal concerns linked to the former president's perceived stance on LGBTQ-related matters. However, Mahama made it clear that this decision has not altered his view of the institution, stating that "whatever disagreements have arisen, Lincoln University holds a special place" in his heart.

  • On March 26, 2026, Mahama spoke to members of the Ghanaian community in Philadelphia about the university's decision.
  • The honorary degree was planned to be awarded just days before the March 26th event, but was ultimately withdrawn by the university.

The players

John Dramani Mahama

Former president of Ghana who was set to receive an honorary doctorate from Lincoln University before the plans were canceled.

Kwame Nkrumah

Ghana's first president, who was nurtured intellectually and grounded in his Pan-Africanist struggle at Lincoln University.

Lincoln University

A historically black university in Pennsylvania that has played a key role in shaping Ghana's founding leadership and maintains strong ties with the country.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Whatever disagreements have arisen, Lincoln University holds a special place in my heart.”

— John Dramani Mahama, Former President of Ghana

“It is where our first President was nurtured intellectually and grounded in his Pan-Africanist struggle. It remains hallowed ground for Ghanaians.”

— John Dramani Mahama, Former President of Ghana

“We cannot separate Lincoln University from Ghana's story, and we will continue to hold it in the highest regard.”

— John Dramani Mahama, Former President of Ghana

What’s next

Lincoln University has not yet commented publicly on the reasons behind the withdrawal of the honorary degree, and it remains to be seen if the university will address the matter further or if any efforts will be made to mend the relationship with Mahama and Ghana.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complexities and sensitivities surrounding academic institutions' decisions to award honorary degrees, particularly when they involve figures with perceived stances on controversial social issues. Mahama's steadfast respect for Lincoln University, despite the withdrawn honor, underscores the deep historical ties between the institution and Ghana's national identity.