By Mercy Nimo
Authorities in the education sector have expressed the need for the government and policymakers to institute measures to strengthen the capacities of the private tertiary institutions in Ghana.
The authorities noted that affordability hinders inclusion and initiatives, a challenge that needed government intervention, emphasising that “private institutions complement the government’s efforts at bringing higher education to the Ghanaian populace and beyond.”
The call was made during the 21st graduation ceremony of the Central University in Accra.
Statistics from 2000 to 2022 show that Ghana’s literacy rate is 79.04 percent, and to enhance this, private institutions are developing to complement the state-owned educational institutions.
The Vice Chancellor of the Central University, Mr. Bill Puplampo, in his address during the 21st graduation ceremony of the Central University, commended the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for their supervisory role in ensuring accreditation of tertiary institutions.
He however said, “often there are multiple demands, timelines, cost and requirements placed on Private Tertiary Institutions in relation to accreditation, or review of some programs.”
The Vice-Chancellor stated, “a good viable approach is in partnering and allowing good homegrown private Universities, Polytechnic and Specialised Institutions to develop, stabilise and consolidate.”
Addressing other issues of great concern, the Vice Chancellor said much work is needed to be done to enhance the cleanliness of the environment.
He said bad environmental practices and the impact of climate change are posing threats to the safety of lives stressing that a lot is required to end the environmental damages.
The Vice-Chancellor urged an aggressive contribution towards the sustainability of the environment and improving the climate situation.
He also urged the student to exhibit responsible lifestyles at their place of work and in society.
This year, 961 students graduated from Central University. 73 had first-class degrees. 18 graduates received special awards.
The overall best student, Joyce Nyarko, recounting her journey through school, urged the youth to be persistent and disciplined in their efforts to attain success. Prizes were awarded to well-performing students from the various faculties.
