First Deaf Graduate of Africa University

 By Rev. Dr. Leo Yates, Jr.

Africa University has made history this year for a number of things, including graduating the largest class of graduates in 29 years. For the Deaf community, another landmark is that on June 10, the university graduated its first Deaf student. The deaf graduate is EV. Collins Prempeh, who received a Bachelor of Divinity degree.

A celebratory picture of Collins at his graduation.

While Africa University is a hearing university with students who use spoken language, the use of sign language interpreters and other accommodations made it possible for Collins to participate in classes, meet degree expectations, and fulfill his Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) requirements. Collins is from Ghana, and uses Ghanaian Sign Language. Because there are few Ghanaian Sign Language interpreters, he taught and collaborated with Zimbabwe sign language interpreters and blended the two sign language systems for use in his academic and social areas at Africa University.

EV. Collins with his degree.

Collins pursued the Bachelor of Divinity in order to meet the United Methodist requirements for serving as a pastor. He intends to use his gifts and graces in Deaf ministries in Zimbabwe and Ghana. "I now want to focus more in the local church where I need more experience in ministry and evangelism," said Collins. When asked about his favorite courses, Collins briefly described his CPE class where he stepped into the role of a chaplain to visit Deaf and hard-of-hearing persons who were sick, requested counseling, and sought prayer. This Deaf student is evidence that Africa University can provide quality education to Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. 

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries Committee and the Serving and Educating Exceptional Deaf Students (SEEDS) fund both provided Collins with scholarships in order to make his academic dreams come true.

Rev. Dr. Kirk VanGilder and Rev. Dr. Tom Hudspeth with Collins at his graduation.

The interpreters, Raymond Tatenda Kansha Makuwaza and Markhigher Tonde, were recognized for their commitment to providing interpretation during Collins' degree program.

Sign language interpreter at the graduation.

Several members of the Deaf community who are proud parishioners from Hilltop UMC of Sakubva Mutare, were in attendance for Collins' graduation. His graduation from Africa University is a sign of hope that other Deaf and hard of hearing persons can also attend and graduate from the university. Collins is not only a pioneer but also a trailblazer, ready to pass on the baton to the next Deaf student attending Africa University.

Deaf members of Hilltop UMC in Mutare attending the graduation ceremony.