Madam Salome Azevedo, the Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana Limited, has extended congratulations to the 52 Award Winners of the 2026 President’s Independence Day Awards.
Nestlé Ghana Limited, through its brand MILO and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, sponsored the 2026 President’s Independence Day Awards Winners.
The award ceremony, which took place at the Accra International Conference Centre, was addressed by Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
Nestlé Ghana gave out laptops, plaques, sashes, medals and a one-year supply of Nestlé products to all the 52 Award Winners.
The President’s Independence Awards is an annual event organised by the Presidency on the eve of Ghana’s Independence Day Anniversary Celebration to recognise exceptional academic performance in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) of the previous academic year.
Madam Azevedo said: “Today, we shine a well-deserved spotlight on the remarkable achievements of young people who represent the hope and future of our society,” she said.
“To all the award winners, I extend my warmest congratulations. Your dedication, discipline, and perseverance have brought you to this proud moment. Nestlé is delighted to stand with you today as we celebrate your well-earned success.”
Madam Azevedo said their achievements were a source of pride, not only for themselves but for their families, schools, and communities.
Adding: “Enjoy this moment and know that your success is celebrated by all of us”.
She said they were delighted to applaud the hard work behind the Award Winners’ achievements.
“But I also stand here as a mother and a parent. To all parents: I can only imagine how proud you are of your little ones and how far they’ve come. Whether you are present here today or celebrating from afar, congratulations. Your support and encouragement made a difference.”
She said Nestlé’s partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, and the Presidency to support and organise this prestigious award was enduring.
She noted that this longstanding collaboration reaffirms their belief in the power of education and their commitment to encouraging students to pursue knowledge, develop skills, and strive for personal excellence.
Madam Azevedo said this year’s awards recognise outstanding students from both public and private schools, including students with visual and hearing impairments.
“At Nestlé, we believe that our growth is closely linked to the well-being of the communities we serve,” she said.
“We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for everyone, and today, we are proud to celebrate 52 exceptional students whose achievements reflect resilience and excellence.”
She said the theme for this year’s Independence celebration, “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,” strongly aligned with the spirit of the President’s Independence Awards.
“By celebrating the academic achievements of these remarkable students, we are not only rewarding hard work and dedication but also investing in the prosperity of Ghana,” Madam Azevedo said.
She reiterated that their success serves as a beacon of hope—one that inspires others to aim higher and reminds them all that with determination, opportunity, and support, the sky would be their limit.
In a message to all girls, as part of this year’s International Women’s Day, Madam Azevedo reminded them that all achievements carry a lot of weight.
“You are breaking barriers and inspiring other young girls to believe in themselves and aim higher,” she stated.
“Continue to pursue your dreams with confidence and purpose, knowing that your voices, ambitions, and contributions are essential to the continued progress of any nation.”
Madam Azevedo once again offered her heartfelt congratulations to all the 52 Award Winners, saying, “As you take the next steps in your educational journey, continue to chase your dreams and let your passion guide you”.
“Your achievements today mark the beginning of the meaningful impact you will make in society.”
