Graduation ceremonies have become a significant milestone for students, especially at the tertiary level, symbolising the end of their academic journey and their transition into the professional world.
Beyond celebrating academic achievements, many students focus keenly on their appearance for the big day. For them, graduation is not just a ceremony—it is a fashion moment.
Miss Gifty Mensah William, a graduate of the University of Media, Arts and Communication–Institute of Journalism (UniMAC-IJ), told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during the university’s recent graduation ceremony that she wanted to show up looking exceptional.
“Bagging a degree in UniMAC is a tough one, especially completing it with distinction. I wanted to show up looking my best,” she said.
For the UniMAC Class of 2025, one lesson from their lecturers stood out: presentation is everything. The frequently repeated mantra, “Dress how you want to be addressed,” was clearly reflected in their appearance.
The North Dzorwulu campus transformed into what looked like a runway where academia met fashion. While graduation ceremonies are often characterised by bright colours and bold style statements, this year’s edition took a different turn. The school issued a directive prescribing strict court wear or formal outfits, signalling that graduation was not just about earning a degree but also about projecting readiness for the job market.
Graduates stepped out looking professional and polished, swapping the usual party-style flair for a focused, business-oriented aesthetic.
Even though the communiqué arrived late, most students adhered to the instructions, selecting soft-toned formal pieces paired with full glam looks.
“It’s not like I was stubborn and didn’t want to follow the instructions given; I had planned everything before the communiqué came out,” said Joyce Opare, one of the graduates.
Many graduates told GNA that their decision to “dress to kill” was also a celebration of the difficult journey they had endured through years of academic work.
With glam budgets ranging from GHS 2,000 to GHS 5,000, preparations covered everything from makeup and outfits to shoes and maintaining the look throughout the day.
For the women, powdered faces, striking court heels and tailored, body-flattering outfits created an atmosphere of elegance. The men elevated their executive looks with coats, crisp ties and polished office shoes.
However, the journey to achieving the perfect graduation appearance was not without challenges. Securing vendors for outfit inspiration, sizing, styling and on-time delivery proved stressful for many.
“I experienced setbacks three days before graduation. The people who had to deliver my things kept giving excuses, leading to unplanned expenses,” said Miss Rita Ganyo, another graduate.
Miss Ganyo added that getting her facial makeup done also became a race against time, as appointments were fully booked. Thankfully, the results—and the beautiful, camera-ready photographs—made the struggle worthwhile.
Despite the restrictions, many graduates welcomed the formal dress code, stating that it reinforced professionalism and instilled confidence.
“The court attire was a standard or guide for us to dress appropriately,” a graduate said, expressing satisfaction with the directive.
In a competitive world, the UniMAC graduates believed their dressing sent a powerful message—that they were not just creative thinkers but professionals ready for the industry as journalists, public relations officers, filmmakers and communication experts.
Their outfits, they said, were more than mere fashion; they were declarations of readiness for the future.
By Miriam Oparebea
