By: Jennifer Frimpong Wiredu
The newly inducted Vice-Chancellor of Valley View University, Professor Daniel Ganu, has used his acceptance speech to push for a major shift in Ghana’s higher education policy calling for the inclusion of private universities in the government’s “no-fee stress” initiative.
Speaking at his induction ceremonyand the 5th Induction for the University in Accra, Professor Ganu described his appointment as both an honour and a serious responsibility, but quickly moved beyond ceremony to spotlight what he sees as a pressing national concern: the rising cost of tertiary education and unequal access to financial support.
He argued that while the government’s “no-fee stress” policy is a step in the right direction, limiting it to public institutions overlooks the critical role private universities play in expanding access to higher education.
“The benefits of government support initiatives should be extended… private universities also contribute significantly to national development,” he added.
Professor Ganu emphasized that broadening the policy would not only ease the financial burden on students but also strengthen the overall tertiary education system, as private institutions continue to absorb increasing numbers of applicants.
Beyond policy advocacy, he reaffirmed Valley View University’s mission as a faith-based institution dedicated to holistic education, blending academic excellence with discipline, service, and character development.
“Valley View University is not just another university… it is a faith-based institution with a higher calling,” he added.
He outlined a leadership vision centered on innovation, financial responsibility, and student-focused governance.
The ceremony also featured remarks from Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong, Presidential Adviser, who represented the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah. She underscored the importance of strong, values-driven leadership in shaping resilient educational institutions.
“Leadership remains central to building credible institutions,” she noted, adding that universities must go beyond academics to nurture integrity and service.
Founded in 1979 and granted a presidential charter in 2006, Valley View University stands as Ghana’s first chartered private university. As Professor Ganu begins his tenure, his call for inclusive education financing is already positioning him as a voice in the national conversation on equity, access, and the future of higher education in Ghana.
