“Truth stands.” What does this motto mean to you as you stand before Commonwealth Hall Chapel? Commonwealth Hall, or simply “The Hall” as it’s known, is more than just a residence. It is a legacy at the University of Ghana.
Commonwealth Hall is one of the five traditional halls at the University of Ghana. Interestingly, it remains the only all-male hall in the university. The Hall was built to accommodate students. It was the third hall constructed after Legon Hall and Akuafo Hall.
The naming of Commonwealth Hall is interwoven with Ghana’s history. After Ghana’s independence from Great Britain in 1957, the hall was named to honor Ghana’s admission into the Commonwealth of Nations. The official launch took place in March 1957. But the first students were admitted into the hall at the beginning of the 1956 to 1957 academic year.
Now, about that motto. “Truth stands” is from John Donne’s Satire III poems. The full line reads, “On a huge hill, cragged, and steep, Truth stands and he that will reach her, about must and about must go”. It reflects the university’s quest for knowledge. Commonwealth Hall also has a theatre and an amphitheater for plays and lectures.
Members of Commonwealth Hall proudly call themselves Vandals. This might conjure images of destruction. But within the Hall, it represents something quite different. VANDALS is an acronym. Each letter embodies the qualities of a member. V stands for Vivacious. A is for Affable. N represents Neighborly. D means Devoted. The second A stands for Altruistic. And L signifies Loyal.
Vandalism, within Commonwealth Hall, is a way of life. It promotes respect, fairness, equality, freedom, and justice for all. Vandals consider themselves representatives of the entire student body. They take pride in their leadership qualities.
Hall members refer to each other as “V Mates.” The appropriate response to this greeting is a resounding “Sharp”. Red is their color and symbolizes their spirit. Commonwealth Hall’s coat of arms embodies the strength and unity of its members.
Even when the Hall was still under construction, its residents appreciated its architecture. They valued its open spaces. They fostered a sense of brotherhood to develop the hall and the university. The Vandals maintain an open-minded approach to life. Their devotion helps them enjoy the challenging university experience. As you reflect on Commonwealth Hall Chapel, remember the values it represents.