By Kingsley LARBI (Rev. Prof.)
In a world where opportunities are often limited by one’s socioeconomic background, the pursuit of education and knowledge stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Rev. Prof. E.K. Larbi, in Chapter 12 of his book Born to Win, eloquently demonstrates how knowledge became the key to unlocking his potential and transforming his life.
Titled “Knowledge is Power,” this chapter recounts his arduous yet inspiring journey from a humble background to attaining significant positions in various professional fields. This comprehensive feature delves into the essence of Larbi’s journey, underscoring how education and self-determination allowed him to escape the chains of poverty, rise through the ranks, and align his professional success with his spiritual growth.
The humble beginnings
Rev. Prof. Larbi’s early life was marked by financial struggles and limited opportunities. His first job after completing elementary school was at the Ghana Posts and Telecommunications (P&T), where he worked as a messenger. Despite the lowly position, Larbi’s desire to break free from the cycle of poverty drove him to seek further education. He recognized early on that knowledge was the only tool that could enable him to elevate his life. This realization set him on a path of relentless self-improvement.
While working as a postal clerk, he enrolled in evening classes to further his education. His studies covered various subjects, including bookkeeping, economics, and accounting. He passed the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) examinations with distinction, which opened doors to new opportunities. These accomplishments were remarkable, considering that he balanced full-time work and studies, reflecting his dedication and commitment to personal growth.
Climbing the ladder of success
Larbi’s educational achievements soon translated into professional advancement. After successfully passing his RSA exams, he secured a position as an Accounts Clerk at the Ghana Supply Commission (GSC), a prestigious government procurement agency. The move from the P&T to GSC marked a significant turning point in his career, as it was here that he gained valuable experience and further developed his skills. His time at GSC not only broadened his professional horizons but also provided him with a vibrant social and spiritual community.
At GSC, Larbi’s colleagues affectionately nicknamed him “Osofo” (Pastor) because of his spiritual commitment. He participated actively in the Christian Fellowship, which he credits as playing a crucial role in balancing his spiritual and professional life. This experience highlights an important theme in Larbi’s life — the belief that professional success must be accompanied by spiritual growth. His time at GSC also introduced him to various influential individuals who shaped his outlook on life and business, including Mr. Alphonse Laryea and Mr. Oware, whose stories and personalities left lasting impressions on him.
Even while excelling in his position at GSC, Larbi continued to pursue further education. He enrolled at SNAPS College of Accountancy, preparing for more advanced RSA and ACCA examinations. His consistent success in these exams reinforced his belief in the power of knowledge and the need for constant self-improvement. In a telling anecdote, he recalls how a colleague’s motto, “Keep on studying, if they do not promote you, you promote yourself,” became a guiding principle for him.
A broader world of opportunities
After leaving the GSC, Larbi moved on to work with Plant Pool Limited, a subsidiary of the Bank for Housing and Construction. This was followed by a role at the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI), where he took charge of the Finance Office in Kumasi. Each new position provided him with fresh experiences and challenges, and Larbi excelled by applying the knowledge he had accumulated over the years. His stint at MDPI, like his time at GSC, was not merely a job but a learning experience that added to his professional and personal development.
In 1979, Larbi’s career reached a new milestone when he joined Cementation Construction Limited, a British civil engineering company working on large infrastructure projects in Ghana. His role as Office Manager on the White Volta Bridge and Black Volta Bridge projects placed him among expatriate staff, where he had to prove his competence in a demanding work environment. Despite the challenges, Larbi thrived, and his experience at Cementation Construction became a testament to the importance of skill, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.
One poignant moment during this time was when a Ghanaian technician fixed a critical mechanical issue that an expatriate engineer was called in to solve. This incident highlighted that success was not tied to race or background but to skill and expertise. Larbi’s experiences at Cementation Construction reinforced his belief that while education was vital, practical skills and professionalism were equally important.
The role of faith and determination
Throughout his professional journey, Larbi never lost sight of the spiritual dimension of his life. His unwavering faith in God and his determination to succeed fueled his rise from humble beginnings to significant professional achievements. Larbi’s narrative in Chapter 12 underscores the importance of grace, divine intervention, and spiritual discipline in the pursuit of success. He quotes the Bible to emphasize that while human effort is important, it is ultimately God’s grace that opens doors and determines outcomes.
Larbi’s decision to leave Ghana in 1981 marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Before departing, he received a testimonial from his employer, Cementation Construction, praising his reliability, conscientiousness, and maturity. This final acknowledgment from a prestigious international company was a fitting conclusion to his professional career in Ghana, which had been shaped by his determination to educate himself and break free from poverty.
Conclusion
Rev. Prof. E.K. Larbi’s story, as told in Chapter 12 of Born to Win, is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of knowledge. His journey from a humble messenger to a respected Office Manager in a British civil engineering firm is a testament to the impact of education, self-discipline, and faith. Through relentless pursuit of knowledge, Larbi was able to overcome the limitations of his background, rise to professional prominence, and align his spiritual life with his career. His story serves as an inspiration to all, showing that with determination, education, and faith, it is possible to transcend barriers and achieve greatness.
In a world where economic challenges can seem insurmountable, Larbi’s life stands as proof that knowledge, when pursued with purpose and dedication, can indeed empower individuals to shape their destinies and rise above their circumstances. His journey also highlights the importance of coupling professional advancement with spiritual growth, illustrating that true success encompasses both material and spiritual fulfillment.
The writer is the Founder & Chancellor, Regent University College of Science and Technology, Ghana
