Old Vandals celebrate historic return to Commonwealth Hall

The Old Vandals Association (OVA) marked a historic milestone with the successful staging of the 2026 Vandals Jamboree at Commonwealth Hall of the University of Ghana, as fraternity leaders, alumni and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a symbolic homecoming after five years away from the hall.

The event, held on August 1, 2026, was described as a defining moment in the fraternity's history, signalling a renewed era of reconciliation, unity and institutional cooperation.

The annual gathering, which took place at the famous Bacchus Gardens inside the Vandal City, brought together generations of Old Vandals from across Ghana and abroad.

The 2026 edition carried added significance as it was the first Jamboree to be hosted at Commonwealth Hall since a prolonged impasse forced the fraternity to organise its celebrations away from campus.

Speaking during the ceremony, Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, who represented Old Vandals serving in both the Executive and the Legislature, described the occasion as an emotional and historic reunion for members of the fraternity.

He expressed gratitude to the management of the University of Ghana for its role in restoring cordial relations that made the return possible.

Dr. Apaak used the platform to call on current students of Commonwealth Hall to safeguard the peace that has now been restored.

According to him, preserving harmony within the university community remains essential to ensuring that the fraternity continues to thrive and maintain its respected place within the University of Ghana.

He stressed that every Vandal has a responsibility to act with restraint, maturity and wisdom, noting that nothing should be allowed to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that has been painstakingly rebuilt.

He observed that maintaining positive engagement with the university administration would benefit both Commonwealth Hall and the wider University of Ghana community.

The Deputy Minister further indicated that sustaining the renewed relationship would provide the ideal foundation for preparations toward the celebration of the 70th Anniversary of Commonwealth Hall in 2027.

He expressed optimism that the milestone anniversary would become one of the most memorable events in the hall's distinguished history.

One of the major highlights of the Jamboree was the announcement that the Global Head Office of the Old Vandals Association has officially reopened after remaining closed during the period of the impasse. Members described the development as a powerful symbol of institutional restoration and organisational renewal for the fraternity.

Another important milestone acknowledged during the gathering was the lifting of sanctions imposed on seven students who had been rusticated during the period of disagreement between the fraternity and university authorities.

It was announced that six of the affected students have since resumed their academic programmes at the University of Ghana, while members observed a solemn moment in remembrance of the seventh student who unfortunately passed away before benefiting from the resolution.

Dr. Apaak noted that the achievements celebrated at the Jamboree were the result of collective sacrifices and sustained engagement by many individuals and institutions.

He commended the contributions of Old Vandals serving within the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary for supporting efforts aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding confidence between the fraternity and the university.

Special recognition was also extended to the National Council of Elders of the Old Vandals Association for providing strategic leadership and wise counsel throughout the challenging period.

The National Executive of OVA was equally praised for remaining focused, coordinating reconciliation efforts and ensuring that the fraternity remained united despite the difficult circumstances.

The Deputy Minister further acknowledged the unwavering commitment of OVA's regional chapters as well as its international branches in North America and the United Kingdom.

Their mobilisation of resources, advocacy and continuous support, he noted, demonstrated the enduring strength of the Vandal spirit and reinforced the fraternity's enduring slogan that "Once a Vandal, Always a Vandal."

Reflecting on the legacy of Commonwealth Hall, Dr. Apaak described the institution as one of Ghana's foremost leadership incubators.

Over the decades, the hall has produced distinguished traditional rulers, politicians, judges, legal practitioners, vice chancellors, academics, researchers, business executives, security chiefs, media personalities, playwrights, entertainers and internationally acclaimed athletes who continue to contribute significantly to national development.

He further stated that the reputation of the Vandal fraternity has been built on decades of resilience, discipline, organisation and commitment to service.

According to him, the fraternity remains widely recognised as one of the country's most structured, progressive and caring student traditions, with a rich heritage that continues to inspire successive generations of members.

Dr. Apaak also reflected on the values that define the Vandal identity, explaining that members proudly uphold the principles of freedom, equity, justice and service to society.

He noted that Vandals have consistently championed the cause of the voiceless while remaining fearless in defending what they believe to be right.

He reiterated that the fraternity's name embodies the values of being Vivacious, Affable, Neighbourly, Dedicated, Altruistic and Loyal, while its enduring motto remains, "Truth Stands."

The celebration concluded on a deeply emotional note as Dr. Apaak expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Old Vandals Association for honouring him in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the fraternity.

He described the award as the most cherished among the many honours he has received throughout his public life, reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the ideals and enduring legacy of Commonwealth Hall and the Old Vandals Association.

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