By
KINGSLEY LARBI (Rev. Prof.)
dd
As I reflect on the significant changes in my life, it becomes evident that God was crafting a far grander design than what I could grasp at the time.
In Chapter 40 of my publication
Born to Win
I recount an intensely private odyssey characterized by setbacks yet guided by fate.
Following what remains one of the toughest professional challenges for me, my unexpected reinstatement from Central University College left me at a daunting fork in the road.
Yet, precisely from that source of discomfort emerged the inspiration that led to the establishment of Regent University College of Science and Technology.
The Central University Was My Calling—Until It No Longer Was
Let me make myself clear: my intention was not to create a new university during my time at Central University College. Those who know me well understand just how intensely dedicated and focused I am on the current tasks before me.
At Central, I dedicated myself entirely; I treated the institution like my own calling. I neither had the time nor the inclination to establish a competing organization. That changed when I was dismissed.
Despite considering that incident as a significant misstep in leadership, I sensed divine guidance. Deep down, I understood that agreeing to the recall would have cut short my mission too soon. Consequently, I started seeking a deeper connection with Him.
I had two choices ahead of me: either become part of the Church of Pentecost to back their developing university, or set off and create something entirely new from the ground up.
The simpler choice would have been to enroll at Pentecost University. I actually had initial talks with them, and they set aside an office space for me at their Sowutuom campus. However, the holdup in establishing that office provided me with the clarity required.
A trusted senior suggested I move ahead with what God has put on my heart, which felt like heavenly affirmation.
The Emergence of Regent University: A Dream Realized
As I started reflecting, praying, and strategizing, an incredible burst of energy filled me. The deeper I thought about establishing my own university, the more exhilarated and happy I felt. Before long, I had composed the initial pamphlet for this new educational entity. Upon reaching the point where naming was necessary, I sought advice from trusted friends and ultimately decided on:
Regent University College of Science and Technology
.
It was as though a box of gold had fallen into my lap at that instant. The name, the vision, and the mission suddenly became perfectly clear. Therefore, in 2003, with less than
50 students
With limited resources and unwavering faith, we welcomed everyone through our doors.
In just three short years, we achieved accreditation from the National Accreditation Board (which has since become GTEC). Thanks to divine providence, Regent started to thrive. To date, we have educated and awarded degrees to more than
10,000 students
many of whom have gone on to become leaders and professionals across Africa, Europe, and North America.
A Fiscal Legacy Shaped by Belief and Renunciation
Beginning Regent wasn’t merely a spiritual endeavor; it was also a significant financial challenge. Our starting funds, primarily derived from tuition fees, individual donations, and my personal investments, were projected to be roughly
$2 million (approximately £140,000 at the time)
Every cedi expended was akin to planting a seed of faith.
By 2023, Regent’s yearly operational budget has reached more than
₵25 million (approx. $2 million)
. We now employ more than
200 staff members
, and our programs span technology, theology, business, and entrepreneurship. We’ve attracted grants exceeding
$1.2 million
from international donors like DAAD (Germany) and the Carnegie Corporation.
Leadership, Unfairness, and Divine Intervention
To be frank, being ousted from Central still stings. It remains one of the most egregious instances of bad corporate management I have witnessed. Nonetheless, amidst that distressing experience, I can now see the guiding hand of God at work.
Back then, I didn’t recognize it. However, now I can affirm alongside the Apostle Joseph:
“You intended harm towards me, but God turned it into something good, to save many lives” (Genesis 50:20).
That instance was when God propelled me into a new mission that transformed numerous lives further. Only later did I realize that my move to ICGC was an orchestrated diversion by fate. At ICGC, I headed the Ministerial Training Institute, which paved the way for what eventually became Regent University.
An Closing Note of Appreciation and Intent
As I was writing my handover notes in 2003, I reflected deeply on all that God had done. Central University had grown into Ghana’s leading private university, creating opportunity for thousands. I am grateful for every life touched, every lesson learned, and every storm weathered.
I am profoundly grateful to Dr. Mensa Otabil for providing me with an opportunity at ICGC, allowing my ministry to continue thriving. His choice has been a blessing to countless individuals.
To all of you who supported me throughout those unsure times, I extend my gratitude. It was your sacrifices, trust, and confidence in my purpose that brought Regent into being.
Conclusion
In Chapter 40 of my narrative, the focus isn’t merely on establishing a university; it’s about realizing that purpose frequently emerges under duress. When the path at Central University became blocked, I believed my expedition was over. However, God had prepared an alternative gateway for me: Regent.
It wasn’t just about a door for me; it has impacted thousands of students, whose lives have been changed because of our efforts.
In a country where more than
450,000 students
Each year, many students pursue higher education at universities, but only a small number manage to secure places in public institutions. In this scenario, the importance of mission-oriented private universities such as Regent cannot be overlooked.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
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