On Thursday, June 26, 2025, the leadership of the Wassa Student Union paid a courtesy call on Dr. Toni Aubynn to formally congratulate him on his appointment as Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC).
Dr. Aubynn, who also serves as a patron of the Union, warmly received the delegation and commended them for their initiative, unity, and commitment to empowering Wassa students.
In an inspiring engagement, the accomplished mining expert, lawyer, and corporate executive shared personal stories of perseverance and growth, illustrating how he overcame significant professional and personal challenges to attain success. He emphasized the transformative power of education and urged the students to use their knowledge to create impact beyond their immediate families, particularly in their communities.
A key highlight of the visit was a proposal by the Union to establish the Wassa Innovation Hub, an idea Dr. Aubynn wholeheartedly welcomed. He underscored the potential of the Hub to empower young people in the Wassa area through mentorship, entrepreneurial support, and skills development.
He appealed to traditional authorities in the area to consider allocating land for the project and pledged to use his networks to mobilize funding and partnerships to bring the vision to life. Dr. Aubynn noted that such a hub could serve as a strategic intervention to reduce illegal mining (galamsey) by providing alternative livelihoods and opportunities for youth.
The President of the Wassa Student Union, Michael Otoo in his remarks, expressed deep admiration for Dr. Aubynn’s unwavering commitment to the student body. He conveyed the Union’s confidence in Dr. Aubynn’s ability to make a lasting impact in his new role and lauded his longstanding support as a mentor and patron.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of a framed photograph of Dr. Aubynn, accompanied by a message of congratulations on his appointment by the students.