What you should know about the Sculpture on UCC Campus: Bust of Casely Hayford in Focus

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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What you should know about the Sculpture on UCC Campus: Bust of Casely Hayford in Focus

Ferdinand | EducationGhana |  March 20|  What you should know about the Sculpture on UCC Campus: Bust of Casely Hayford in Focus

The University of Cape Coast celebrates the legacy of Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford with a bust sculpture commissioned in 2003/2004. A tribute to his work for African unity during the colonial era.

 

At the University of Cape Coast (UCC), a sculpture gracing the grounds has become a central symbol of historical reflection and national pride. The bust of Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford, commissioned by the Junior Common Room (JCR) during the 2003/2004 academic year, stands as a tribute to the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s history.

A Classic European Sculpture Reflecting Colonial History

Crafted in the classic European style, the bust of Casely Hayford reflects the colonial era during which he worked tirelessly for the advancement of Africa, particularly the Gold Coast (modern-day Ghana).

The sculpture’s design and materials mirror the artistic conventions of the colonial period, a time when Casely Hayford’s efforts to empower Africans were essential in shaping the future of the region.


Casely Hayford, born on September 28, 1868, was not only a lawyer but also a writer, journalist, and politician. His dedication to the cause of African rights during a time of British colonial rule in West Africa made him a prominent figure in the fight for African unity and independence. It was his enduring belief in the importance of unity that contributed significantly to the creation of a more unified Gold Coast.

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An Honorable Legacy

 

The bust is mounted on a pillar that carries a meaningful inscription that commemorates Hayford’s life and contributions to Africa’s liberation movement. The inscription, as follows, encapsulates his monumental achievements:

“Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford
September 28, 1868 – August 11, 1930
Writer, journalist, politician, and lawyer,
Helped lay the foundation for a united Gold Coast
And founded the National Congress of British West Africa.
He also worked for Africans during the Colonial Era.
By J.C.R.C. 2003/2004.”


This inscription honors Casely Hayford’s various roles and the immeasurable impact he had on the Gold Coast and its movement towards independence.

His efforts were not limited to legal matters but extended into the founding of the National Congress of British West Africa (NCBWA), a key organization in the struggle for a unified and independent African continent.

The Symbol of Unity and Vision

Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford’s role in fostering African solidarity and promoting pan-African ideals through his journalism and political activism is further recognized through this bust. Casely Hayford was deeply invested in the unification of African nations during the colonial era, a vision he worked towards despite significant challenges.

His work laid the foundation for future leaders in the Gold Coast and across the African continent, who would later build on his dream of an independent and united Africa.

The University of Cape Coast, where Casely Hayford Hall is named in his honor, is an appropriate home for this sculpture. As an institution committed to educational excellence, UCC provides an environment where the legacy of such influential figures continues to inspire students and faculty alike. The bust serves not only as a historical reminder but also as a symbol of the values of leadership, unity, and resilience that Casely Hayford championed.

Educational and Historical Importance

The presence of the Casely Hayford bust on the UCC campus is an important part of the university’s efforts to promote historical awareness and deepen understanding of Ghana’s path to independence. It invites students and visitors to reflect on the struggles and achievements of those who fought for African liberation, including figures like Casely Hayford who played a vital role in the political and intellectual movements that led to the eventual independence of Ghana.


For those interested in the history of Ghana and Africa’s struggle against colonial rule, the bust provides an excellent starting point.

It is a reminder of the resilience and leadership needed to overcome the challenges of colonization, and an invitation to continue the work that figures like Casely Hayford started many years ago.

A Symbol of Inspiration for Students

The bust of Casely Hayford also serves as an important source of inspiration for the students of UCC and beyond.

It is a reminder of the power of education, activism, and commitment to national development. As students walk past the statue, they are encouraged to remember the sacrifices made by those who paved the way for the freedoms they enjoy today.

Hayford’s vision of a united and self-determined Africa is still relevant in today’s world, and his legacy continues to guide those who strive for a better future for Africa and its people.

What you should know about the Sculpture on UCC Campus: Bust of Casely Hayford in Focus | 1

The sculpture of Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford at the University of Cape Coast stands not only as a tribute to his extraordinary contributions but also as a lasting reminder of the struggle for unity and independence in Africa. It serves as a beacon for future generations to honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for a free and united Africa.


As UCC continues to educate and inspire future leaders, the bust of Casely Hayford will remain an enduring symbol of the nation’s rich history and a catalyst for discussions around African unity, leadership, and the continued fight for self-determination.

This sculpture, and its placement at a university deeply rooted in the quest for knowledge and African excellence, ensures that the spirit of Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford lives on for generations to come.

 

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