In a striking convergence of academic achievement and political continuity, Chief of Staff Samuel Julius Debrah has officially joined the ranks of the University of Ghana’s newest doctorate holders, graduating with a PhD in Museum and Heritage Studies from the College of Humanities. The graduation is currently ongoing as part of the university’s July 2026 congregation ceremonies, will see 1,884 students conferred with degrees, including 157 PhD scholars.
Debrah’s doctoral research, titled “Community Heritage and Tourism Development in Kwahu Ghana,” reflects his longstanding academic and professional focus on the intersection of culture, tourism, and local economic growth. His educational journey at the University of Ghana spans a BA in Archaeology and Sociology, an MA in Archaeology and Heritage Studies, and now a PhD in Heritage and Tourism Development.
The achievement is particularly notable given the demands of his public service responsibilities. Debrah successfully defended his thesis while serving at the highest levels of government. President John Dramani Mahama, who first appointed Debrah as Chief of Staff in 2015, reappointed him to the role upon assuming office for his second term.
Debrah’s career in public service began in 2009 when he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (then the Ghana Tourist Board), where he oversaw its transformation and helped elevate the nation’s tourism brand. In February 2013, Mahama nominated him as Eastern Regional Minister, though he was moved to Greater Accra Region after just one month. He later served as Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, where he launched the National Sanitation Day campaign and implemented Ghana’s national street-naming and property addressing system.
Reflecting on his reappointment, Debrah acknowledged his uncertainty about returning to the role, stating, “I knew I could be part of the presidential team, but I wasn’t too sure. It’s the prerogative of the president.” He emphasized that competence, not merely loyalty, was the deciding factor, adding that the president values people “who can work”.
President Mahama has publicly praised Debrah’s loyalty, humility, and efficiency, describing him as a trusted aide whose service has left a lasting impression on governance. Debrah, who hails from Obomeng Kwahu in the Eastern Region, is widely regarded as one of Mahama’s closest political allies and a key architect of the administration’s governance agenda.
As one of 157 doctorate scholars graduating this July, Debrah’s academic milestone adds a new dimension to a public service career that has spanned tourism promotion, regional governance, local government reform, and presidential administration a trajectory that now includes the title of Doctor.