By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
As Dr. Emmanuel Antwi retires after 15 remarkable years at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), the USC community reflects on the profound impact of his tenure as Dean of the School of Science, Technology, and Allied Health. A man of vision, passion, and unwavering commitment, Dr. Antwi leaves behind a legacy of transformation that has shaped the lives of countless students, faculty, and staff.
A Journey Rooted in Faith and Dedication
Dr. Antwi’s journey to USC began in Ghana, where he cultivated a love for teaching inspired by his aunt, a teacher who unknowingly set him on a path of lifelong service. After earning his PhD in 1996, he embarked on a career that spanned continents, teaching in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka under the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. His global experience in science education and leadership eventually led him to USC in 2009.
When Dr. Antwi arrived at USC with his wife and three children, he stepped into a pivotal role as Chair of the Biological Sciences Department. Soon after, he became Dean, steering the school into a new era of growth and excellence.
Transforming SciTech: Milestones and Memories
Under Dr. Antwi’s leadership, the School of Science, Technology, and Allied Health blossomed. In his early years, he recognized the need for programs that aligned with students’ career aspirations and the demands of the job market. He introduced the Biomedical and Pre-Medical programs, expanding opportunities for students and attracting record enrollment.
“When I came, we had only about 30 nursing students. Today, we’re rejecting thousands due to capacity limits,” Dr. Antwi recalled. Similarly, biology students grew from a handful to hundreds, with the new programs providing pathways to careers in medicine and healthcare.
His visionary approach also reshaped the school’s infrastructure. Laboratory spaces, once limited and outdated, were revitalized under his guidance. “Lab Five was just a classroom and office when I arrived,” he shared. “We transformed it into the largest lab on campus.” By acquiring state-of-the-art equipment, including expanding the department’s stock of microscopes from five to 30, he ensured that students received hands-on training in a modern environment.
Beyond academics, Dr. Antwi fostered a sense of community and purpose. Initiatives like the Gnostai Club encouraged students to serve the broader community through outreach programs and environmental cleanups. Annual events such as Science Week brought together faculty, students, and even government officials, showcasing the school’s dynamism and unity.
A Collaborative Spirit
Dr. Antwi’s tenure was marked by a deep appreciation for the faculty and staff who worked alongside him. “I will always remember how cooperative and committed they were,” he said. Whether it was organizing Science Week or pioneering fundraising initiatives like the beloved boat rides, his team consistently supported his vision.
This collaborative spirit extended to the students. Dr. Antwi believed in nurturing the whole person, emphasizing that education at USC was not solely about academics but also about character building and spiritual growth. “We brought non-Adventist students into our church during events, and seeing them come back was a joy,” he said.
Guided by Faith: A Life of Service and Commitment
Dr. Antwi credits his successes to unwavering faith and a life dedicated to fulfilling promises made to God. He recounted the promise he made to God during his studies: “When I was young, I prayed, ‘Lord, I would like You to take care of my wife and I as we study.’ At that time, we had only one child, and I prayed, ‘Lord, if You give us even one more child, anywhere You send, we will go.’ Between our first daughter and our second child, there was a 15-year gap, but the Lord fulfilled His promise to us.”
Dr. Antwi and his wife embraced a life of service, moving wherever the Lord called them, including Indonesia, where the challenges of language and culture tested their faith.
The Antwi family was ultimately blessed with three more children, bringing the total to four. Today, all four have excelled academically, with three having completed their PhDs and the fourth nearing completion. “It’s all because when you promise the Lord, and the Lord does His part, you also need to fulfill your promise,” he emphasized.
Post-Retirement Plans: A New Chapter of Service
As Dr. Antwi prepares to return to Ghana with his family, his retirement is anything but a step back. Instead, he envisions this new phase as an opportunity to deepen his service to his community and country.
A passionate advocate for sustainable development and education, Dr. Antwi plans to contribute to initiatives that address the challenges facing rural areas in Ghana. His focus will be on empowering communities through education, healthcare, and agricultural projects. “I see retirement as a new mission field,” he said, expressing his desire to leverage his vast experience to make a lasting impact.
Dr. Antwi also intends to engage with academic institutions in Ghana, mentoring young educators and contributing to the advancement of science education. He hopes to inspire the next generation of leaders to prioritize innovation, integrity, and service in their work.
Above all, he looks forward to spending more time with his family, strengthening bonds, and enjoying the slower pace of life while continuing to serve where he is needed most.
Words of Wisdom and Hope
As Dr. Antwi prepares to leave USC, he shares words of encouragement for the university community. He emphasized the importance of innovation and adaptability, particularly in the face of economic challenges. “We cannot rely on GATE alone,” he urged, advocating for the development of practical, job-oriented programs such as engineering and other applied sciences.
Dr. Antwi also highlighted the critical role of recruitment and retention, recalling his own efforts to engage prospective students through outreach initiatives. “We must all be involved in getting students and ensuring they stay,” he advised, stressing the importance of fostering an environment that supports and motivates students throughout their academic journey.
A Fond Farewell
As USC bids farewell to Dr. Antwi, his absence will undoubtedly be felt across the campus. Beloved by students, respected by faculty, and admired by staff, he leaves behind not just a thriving school but also a family united in its mission.
Dr. Antwi’s legacy is one of transformation, collaboration, and faith in the potential of every student who walks through USC’s doors. While his retirement marks the end of an era, his influence will continue to shape the university for generations to come.
We thank Dr. Antwi for his exceptional service and wish him and his family abundant blessings in this new chapter of their lives.
Dr. Emmanuel Antwi: teacher, mentor, builder, and friend. Thank you for 15 years of excellence.
