By Peter Martey AGBEKO, APR
Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, a distinguished alumnus of St. Augustine’s College (Augusco), Cape Coast, exemplifies perseverance, innovation and an unyielding love for Ghana. A proud member of APSU 71, Nduom’s legacy at his alma mater and beyond is both inspiring and impactful.
Early life and unique role at Augusco
Nduom’s tenure at Augusco was marked by leadership and distinction. Upon returning from an American Field Service (AFS) trip to the United States, he was elected Protocol Prefect—a role that underscored his charisma and organisational prowess. Even as a young man, he demonstrated an exceptional ability to blend vision with action— traits that would define his future.
Dr. Nduom’s most notable contribution to his alma mater is the construction of the Nduom House. This structure, commissioned in October 2014, stands as a testament to his enduring love for Augusco and his commitment to giving back.
It is a symbol of his belief in fostering environments where young minds can thrive. To date, he is the only APSUnian to have built a house for the school, a legacy unmatched in its generosity and foresight.
Business achievements and challenges
Dr. Nduom’s entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to found the GN Bank, a transformative financial institution that once redefined banking in Ghana. With branches spread across the country, GN Bank democratised access to financial services, encouraging a culture of savings and financial literacy and inclusion at all levels of society. It was particularly impactful for rural communities that had long been excluded from the traditional banking system.
The closure of GN Bank, however, was a significant setback—not just for Nduom, but for many Ghanaians who relied on its services. Dr. Nduom continues to advocate for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the bank’s closure, with hopes for justice and restitution. Many still believe in the possibility of the bank’s revival, holding on to the vision of what it once achieved.
Political career: From Nkrumaist to PPP founder
Dr. Nduom’s political journey reflects his deep love for Ghana and its progress. Rooted in Nkrumaism, he served in President John Agyekum Kufuor’s government, setting aside partisan loyalties to prioritise the nation’s welfare. He was an elected Assembly Member for the Akotobinsin Electoral Area in Elmina.
His service as a Member of Parliament for the Komenda Edina Eguafo Abrem (KEEA) Constituency and later as the founder of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) showcased his unwavering commitment to building a better Ghana. Through the PPP, he championed governance reforms, education and economic transformation, running for the presidency to offer Ghanaians an alternative vision for the future.
Championing education and community
Dr. Nduom’s passion for education and community development extends beyond his alma mater. The Coconut Grove Beach Resort & Conference Centre in Elmina and the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel in Accra, two of his entrepreneurial ventures, have been vital venues for Augusco-related events, fostering unity and collaboration among APSUnians.
Driven by his passion for education, Dr. Nduom established the Nduom School of Business and Technology, part of the Nduom University College. Located at Ayensudo, near Elmina in the Central Region of Ghana, the institution stands out as a rising force in tertiary education. Its distinctive and innovative architecture creates a conducive environment for academic excellence in business, science and technology.
The school’s primary mission is to nurture future leaders and equip them with the skills and knowledge to become the critical workforce driving national development. By fostering collaboration with key educational stakeholders and emphasising applied research and consultancy, the institution actively contributes to enhancing national productivity.
At the Nduom School of Business and Technology, dreams are transformed into reality!
Family and sports
A devoted family man, Dr. Nduom is married to Yvonne, whose unwavering support has been a cornerstone of his success. Together, they have raised accomplished children, each benefitting from the solid educational foundation and opportunities their parents worked hard to provide.
Dr. Nduom’s love for sports led him to found the Elmina Sharks Football Club; and for the women, the Sea Lions Football Club — nurturing local talent and promoting community spirit through sports.
A visionary who inspires
Dr. Nduom’s life story is one of resilience, dedication and hope. His recent visit to President-elect John Dramani Mahama ahead of the December 7 General Elections highlighted his focus on dialogue and accountability. By seeking proper investigations into GN Bank’s closure, he remains a steadfast advocate for fairness and restitution.
For APSUnians and many Ghanaians, Dr. Nduom is more than a businessman or politician; he is a visionary whose legacy continues to inspire. His enduring contributions to education, business and nation-building exemplify the Augusco motto: Omnia Vincit Labor —Perseverance Conquers All. We remain hopeful that GN Bank, like its founder, will rise again, stronger and more impactful, continuing to serve Ghanaians from all walks of life.
