Education News from Ghana

The latest education news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

President Mahama Pledges UGMC Transfer to University of Ghana as Chief of Staff Julius Debrah Earns PhD
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President Mahama Pledges UGMC Transfer to University of Ghana as Chief of Staff Julius Debrah Earns PhD

President John Dramani Mahama has officially assured the University of Ghana (UG) that the management of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) will be transferred from the Ministry of Health to the university. Speaking at the 2nd Session of the July Congregation, the President emphasized that this move is intended to empower the institution to better integrate clinical services with its academic and research mandates. During the ceremony, which saw the graduation of 1,884 students, President Mahama also reiterated his administration's commitment to the ‘No-Fee-Stress’ initiative, designed to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to higher education for Ghanaian youth. A significant highlight of the event was the graduation of the President’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who earned a PhD in Museum and Heritage Studies. President Mahama praised Dr. Debrah for his remarkable dedication, noting that balancing the rigors of a high-profile public service role with intensive doctoral research is a testament to diligence and discipline. The President shared lighthearted anecdotes from their time on the campaign trail, using the Chief of Staff’s achievement to illustrate the importance of lifelong learning and the government’s focus on enhancing research as a catalyst for national development. Reflecting on his own academic journey, President Mahama shared a personal story about his formative years at the University of Ghana’s Commonwealth Hall. He revealed that he was once a ‘very shy’ student, but credited his time at the hall for shaping his personality and providing him with the confidence required for public speaking and leadership. This humanizing reflection resonated with the graduates, as the President urged them to allow the university environment to transform them into bold contributors to society. Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo addressed the congregation by highlighting the university’s continued excellence in the QS World University Rankings. She detailed ongoing efforts to expand digital access through the ‘One Student, One Laptop’ initiative and noted that 1,358 scholarships were awarded during the academic year to support brilliant but needy students. The Vice-Chancellor also pointed to the university's updated Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Policy as part of a commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment. In her closing remarks, Professor Amfo urged the new alumni to uphold the values of integrity and service in their professional lives. The ceremony also recognized individual academic brilliance, with Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Mujib being honored as the overall best graduating student. As these graduates transition into the workforce, the government’s pledge to return the UGMC to the university marks a pivotal step in strengthening the nexus between healthcare delivery and academic research in Ghana.

Some of the participants during the float. Picture SAMUEL OHENE EWUR
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Supreme Court Boosts Legal Literacy as New Publication Explores Ghana's Spiritual and National Identity

Ghana has seen a surge in public education and awareness initiatives this week, marked by the Supreme Court’s major legal outreach program and the launch of a significant literary work on the nation's spiritual heritage. The Supreme Court of Ghana organized a free legal outreach and health walk as part of its 150th-anniversary celebrations, aimed at bridging the gap between the judiciary and the public. Simultaneously, Reverend Adotei E. Abraham launched a new book titled "Ghana: A blessing in the midst of the earth," which seeks to redefine the country’s global significance through a spiritual and geographical lens. Both events highlight a broader effort to enhance national development through increased public engagement and historical awareness. During the Supreme Court’s outreach in Accra, Justice Richard Adjei-Frimpong emphasized the importance of improving public understanding of complex legal issues. The initiative featured a float and health walk designed to make the court more accessible to the average citizen, moving away from traditional perceptions of the judiciary as an intimidating institution. Legal professionals were on hand in public spaces to provide free advice on critical matters such as spousal property rights and child custody. By incorporating physical exercise into the celebrations, the judiciary also sought to promote a healthier lifestyle among its members while fostering a more interactive relationship with the communities they serve. In a parallel effort to educate the public on Ghana's cultural and spiritual standing, Reverend Adotei E. Abraham’s new publication argues that Ghana serves as a "Kingdom centre" due to its unique geographical positioning. The book, dedicated to the memories of Prophet Joel Mensah and Most Reverend George Nikoi Kotey, explores the implications of Ghana being at the spiritual center of the world. Reverend Francis Pappoe, a Deputy Director of Education, praised the work during its launch, noting its potential to inspire future generations. The event also featured a recorded message from the late Most Rev. Kotey, who advocated for a "theocratic democracy" and proposed the development of a mini-city at the country’s spiritual center to boost international tourism. Together, these developments represent a dual focus on the intellectual and legal empowerment of Ghanaians. While the Supreme Court's outreach addresses the immediate need for legal literacy and institutional transparency, Reverend Abraham’s work provides a framework for national pride and cultural development. These initiatives suggest a growing trend of utilizing public forums and literature to shape a more informed and self-aware citizenry. As the Supreme Court continues its anniversary events and the new publication reaches more readers, the long-term goal remains the fostering of a well-informed society capable of contributing to the nation's social and economic progress.

2026 KNUST Fashion Show slated for August 7
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UniMAC and KNUST Drive Cultural Identity and Innovation in Ghana’s Creative Industries

Ghana’s leading academic institutions in the creative arts are intensifying efforts to bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry excellence, focusing on cultural authenticity and professional readiness. At the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), film experts are calling for a departure from Western imitations, while the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) prepares to showcase the next generation of fashion innovators. These developments highlight a growing movement within the educational sector to redefine Ghana’s global footprint in film and design.\n\nDuring a masterclass at the Regal Film Festival and Awards (REFFA), Mr. David Nii Ammah, a film lecturer at UniMAC-IFT, challenged filmmakers to cultivate a distinct Ghanaian storytelling voice. Ammah criticized the tendency to mimic Hollywood styles, urging creators to adopt "hybridization" in their narratives to better reflect local societal contexts. He emphasized that true success in the industry requires a deep understanding of market strategies and cultural specifics. By being bold and strategic, Ammah argued, Ghanaian filmmakers can unapologetically share their unique perspectives with the world.\n\nSimultaneously, the Textile and Fashion section of the Department of Industrial Art at KNUST has announced its 2026 Graduate Exhibition and Fashion Show, scheduled for August 7 at the Great Hall in Kumasi. Under the theme "Becoming: From Excellence to Eminence," the event is designed to celebrate the transition of students into industry-ready professionals. The showcase will feature innovative, self-made textiles, reflecting the department's commitment to transformative education and creativity. KNUST's Vice Chancellor and faculty leaders have hailed the exhibition as a vital platform to honor Ghana’s rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of global design.\n\nTogether, these initiatives from UniMAC and KNUST underscore a strategic shift in Ghanaian higher education toward nurturing home-grown talent that values identity over imitation. By emphasizing cultural specifics and technical mastery, these institutions are preparing graduates to lead the creative economy. As these students transition from academic study to professional practice, their ability to blend traditional heritage with modern innovation will be crucial in defining the future of Ghana's cultural influence on the international stage.

Retired maths teacher donates $38,000 worth of teaching materials to 4 Accra schools
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Samuel Quansah Quarcoo and Mulan Educational Center Lead New Private Sector Support for Ghanaian Schools

Ghana's educational landscape is receiving a significant boost through separate but impactful private sector and philanthropic initiatives aimed at improving learning environments and student safety. In a notable act of diaspora giving, Samuel Quansah Quarcoo, a U.S.-based retired mathematics teacher and philanthropist, has donated educational materials valued at $38,000 to four basic schools in Accra. Simultaneously, the Mulan Smart Educational Center and Mulan Neurodiversity School have entered into a strategic partnership with the Indian brand Nataraj and its local distributor, JK Industries, to provide specialized, non-toxic products for children with neurodevelopmental challenges such as autism. Mr. Quarcoo’s contribution focuses heavily on digitizing the classroom experience, with donations including television sets, computers, and exercise books. During his tour of the beneficiary schools, Quarcoo emphasized that technology is no longer optional in modern education, advocating for a future where every Ghanaian child has access to a personal computer. While school heads expressed deep gratitude for the equipment, they also used the opportunity to highlight ongoing infrastructural deficits that require urgent attention. Quarcoo has signaled his intention to expand these efforts beyond the capital, with plans to target rural schools in future donation cycles while rallying fellow Ghanaians in the diaspora to support the sector. In the realm of inclusive education, the collaboration between Mulan and Nataraj addresses a critical but often overlooked safety concern: the exposure of neurodiverse children to toxins in everyday school supplies. Mulan CEO Thara Brigitte Mills noted that children with special needs are particularly vulnerable to chemical sensitivities, making the provision of certified safe products essential. Ratnodip, the marketing manager for Nataraj, clarified that this partnership is intended to be a long-term commitment to Ghanaian education rather than a one-off corporate social responsibility gesture. The initiative aims to raise public awareness about the specific requirements of neurodiverse learners while ensuring they have the tools necessary for a safe learning environment. These developments underscore a growing trend of private individuals and corporate entities filling critical gaps in the Ghanaian educational system. While Quarcoo’s initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide and improve general infrastructure, the Mulan-Nataraj partnership highlights the need for specialized care and inclusivity for children with disabilities. Both projects are set for further expansion; Quarcoo is looking toward rural outreach, while the Mulan-Nataraj collaboration will be publicly showcased on 1 August at the opening of the Party Tree Mall in Accra, inviting the public to engage with their vision for safer, more inclusive educational standards.

Venture into agriculture to contribute to Ghana's economic transformation – Dr Gaveh urges youth
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Minister Haruna Iddrisu and Academic Experts Outline Strategy for Youth-Led Economic Transformation through Education and Innovation

Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu has lauded the administration of President John Mahama for its decisive action against gold smuggling, which contributed to a record-breaking GH₵20 billion in gold exports in 2025. Speaking at the commissioning of a new campus for the University of Mines and Technology, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that the mining sector is increasingly becoming a cornerstone for regional education and skills development, particularly in the Ahafo region. The Minister’s remarks underscore a broader governmental strategy to integrate academic excellence with national resource management, urging increased local participation and corporate responsibility from industry leaders like Newmont Ghana Gold Limited. This push for specialized education is mirrored in the agricultural sector, where Dr. Eli A. Gaveh of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is championing a youth-led transformation. During the Ghana Cocoa Innovations Hackathon 2026, Dr. Gaveh warned of the risks posed by an aging farmer population and climate change, urging students to bring technological innovation to the cocoa sector. The event showcased practical solutions, such as a prize-winning project focused on the rehabilitation of old cocoa farms, highlighting the critical role of entrepreneurship and resource access in securing Ghana’s economic future. Parallel to these advancements, the National Population Council (NPC) has called for a massive, coordinated investment in Ghana’s estimated 12 million young people. Launching the activities for the 2026 World Population Day, acting Executive Director Angelina Osei Kodua-Nyanor stressed that sustainable development hinges on empowering the youth through robust education, healthcare, and job creation. Supported by the UNFPA, the Council is advocating for a shift where young people are viewed not just as beneficiaries, but as essential change agents and innovators capable of driving national progress. The emphasis on education extends beyond the classroom into professional oversight, as demonstrated by recent initiatives to strengthen Public Financial Management (PFM). Professor Godfred Alufar Bopkin of the University of Ghana Business School recently led a training seminar for journalists, organized by GIZ and the Media Foundation for West Africa. By equipping media professionals with the skills to analyze budgets and expenditures, the initiative aims to enhance transparency and citizen participation in governance. Collectively, these efforts in higher education, vocational innovation, and professional capacity building signal a comprehensive approach to harnessing Ghana’s human capital for long-term economic stability.

Six Students Injured as Fire Destroys House Master's Apartment at Leklebi SHS
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Six Students Injured as Fire Destroys House Master's Apartment at Leklebi SHS

Six students at Leklebi Senior High School in the Volta Region sustained minor injuries on July 21 after a fire broke out in the House Master’s apartment. The incident, which occurred during the late afternoon, sparked immediate and courageous efforts from the student body to contain the blaze before professional emergency services arrived. While the fire caused significant damage to the master's residence, school authorities have confirmed that no lives were lost and the situation was eventually brought under control. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported receiving a distress call regarding the emergency at approximately 4:21 p.m. A crew from the Hohoe Fire Station, under the leadership of Divisional Officer Grade III (DO III) Bismark Hosu-Porbley, was quickly dispatched to the campus. Upon arrival, the firefighting team engaged the flames, successfully preventing the fire from spreading to neighboring school buildings and dormitories. In the chaotic moments following the outbreak, a total of eight individuals—comprising the six students who attempted to help and two occupants of the apartment—required medical attention. Fortunately, medical officials have since discharged all eight individuals, noting that their injuries were relatively minor. As the school community begins the recovery process, the cause of the fire remains a subject of official inquiry. GNFS investigators are currently working to determine the origin of the blaze and whether electrical faults or other factors were responsible. This event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and emergency preparedness within second-cycle institutions across the country. For now, the administration at Leklebi SHS is focused on providing support to the affected House Master and ensuring that academic activities can continue safely while fire officials conclude their investigation.

The writer
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Ministry of Education to Convene National Dialogue Amid Growing Concerns Over School Discipline and FSHS Sustainability

Ghana’s education sector is currently facing a dual crisis of character and quality, prompting the Ministry of Education to announce a National Dialogue on Discipline in Schools. Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu has underscored the urgency of this initiative following a worrying rise in student indiscipline, including cases of vandalism and bullying. The Minister emphasized that cultivating responsible citizens requires a collective effort from parents, educators, and the community to review disciplinary policies, enhance guidance services, and strengthen ethical standards within the teaching profession. Parallel to these concerns regarding student conduct is an intensifying debate over the long-term viability of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy. While the program, initiated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, significantly expanded access to secondary education, critics argue that the focus on enrollment has come at the expense of educational quality. Recent assessments point to overcrowded classrooms and stagnant WASSCE pass rates as evidence that the system is under severe strain, leading to calls for a strategic pivot toward quality outcomes rather than just quantity of students. Furthermore, the current execution of the FSHS policy has raised significant questions regarding social equity and the efficient use of public funds. Observers have noted that the universal nature of the subsidy allows affluent families to benefit from public resources that could be better utilized to support the most vulnerable students. This dynamic risks creating a class-divided education system where the disparity between public funding and private educational needs threatens the historical role of public schools as engines of social mobility and national integration. In light of these systemic challenges, there is a growing consensus among stakeholders for a comprehensive national conference to reform education policy. The goal of such a dialogue would be to address both the behavioral issues in schools and the structural flaws of the FSHS program. By engaging a broad spectrum of citizens, the government seeks to foster a more sustainable and equitable education framework that ensures every Ghanaian child receives a high-quality education that promotes both academic excellence and social cohesion.

University of Ghana and Prof. Samuel Kojo Kwofie Champion AI-Driven Future for Africa’s Development
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University of Ghana and Prof. Samuel Kojo Kwofie Champion AI-Driven Future for Africa’s Development

The University of Ghana is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s technological evolution, urging graduates and academic institutions to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science as catalysts for national development. Speaking at the 2026 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa, Professor Samuel Kojo Kwofie, Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology at the University of Ghana, described data as the "new gold" for the continent. He emphasized that Africa possesses a wealth of untapped data that is essential for creating equitable solutions to pressing challenges in healthcare, education, and agriculture, provided the continent takes the lead in producing homegrown technologies rather than relying on foreign imports. This call to action aligns with the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2035, a landmark policy launched by President John Mahama to revolutionize the country’s digital landscape. Prof. Kwofie highlighted a significant surge in AI investment across Africa, which has grown from $1.2 billion to approximately $4.1 billion over the last five years. He advocated for universities to reposition themselves as AI-powered institutions that prioritize affordable and accessible innovation. Practical applications are already emerging in Ghana, such as AI-driven tools that assist smallholder farmers in improving crop yields and managing resources more efficiently. The academic community's commitment to this digital transformation was further underscored during the University of Ghana’s July 2026 graduation ceremonies. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Felix Ankomah Asante urged the graduating class of 1,884 students—including 157 PhD and 1,429 master’s degree holders—to deploy AI, innovation, and integrity in their professional journeys. The university leadership stressed that as these graduates enter an increasingly technology-driven society, they must remain committed to excellence and lifelong learning to effectively address national issues and mentor future generations. Ultimately, the next decade is viewed as a critical window for Africa to establish itself as a producer of AI solutions. By converting massive amounts of unutilized data into actionable insights, Ghana aims to improve economic opportunities and social services. Leaders at the University of Ghana believe that by combining cutting-edge technology with high ethical standards, the country can ensure that the AI revolution is both inclusive and transformative, securing a more prosperous future for all Ghanaians.

Presbyterian Church of Ghana Implements New Disability Policy to Enhance Inclusion and Decision-Making
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Presbyterian Church of Ghana Implements New Disability Policy to Enhance Inclusion and Decision-Making

The Presbyterian Church of Ghana, through its Department of Social Services (DSS), has reaffirmed its commitment to the total inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) through the implementation of a comprehensive new disability policy. This initiative seeks to ensure that PWDs are not merely attendees but active participants in the spiritual and administrative life of the church. Ms. Jedidiah Abanga of the DSS emphasized that the core objective of the policy is to create a disability-friendly environment that guarantees equal opportunities for every member of the congregation, regardless of their physical or cognitive circumstances. A significant pillar of this new framework is the establishment of a National Committee on Disability. This committee has been tasked with advocating for the specific needs of PWDs and ensuring their representation in key decision-making processes. By moving beyond basic accessibility to focus on active representation, the church aims to empower PWDs to take up leadership roles and contribute their perspectives to the governance of the institution. This move signals a shift towards institutionalizing inclusion as a fundamental part of the church’s operational structure. To support the practical application of the policy, the church has also prioritized education and sensitization among its members. A recent seminar conducted in Kumasi served as a platform for church leaders and congregants to explore strategies for integrating disability issues into all facets of church life. The seminar highlighted the necessity of training church members to understand and address the unique challenges faced by PWDs, fostering a culture of support and empathy. These training sessions are expected to be replicated across various districts to ensure that the message of inclusion reaches every local session. Ultimately, the Presbyterian Church of Ghana views this policy as a vital step toward creating a more equitable society. By integrating disability inclusion at all levels, from local worship to national administration, the church is setting a standard for other religious bodies and community organizations in Ghana. The successful implementation of these strategies is expected to provide a model for how faith-based organizations can champion the rights and dignity of vulnerable groups, ensuring that every individual has the space to serve and worship without barriers.

Rev. Dr Agbeko (seated, middle) with some pastors and elders of the church, representatives of the Eglise Evangelique Presbyterienne du Togo and the newly ordained pastors
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Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ghana Strengthens Leadership Through Integrity and Theological Training

The Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG) has reinforced its commitment to clerical excellence and ethical leadership through a series of high-level training and ordination programs. During the 18th annual Retreat and Leadership Training held at the E.P. Seminary in Peki-Dzake, and a subsequent ordination ceremony at Adaklu Waya, church authorities and traditional leaders emphasized the urgent need for holiness and servant leadership. These initiatives serve as a critical platform for theological reflection and professional development, aimed at safeguarding the church’s spiritual heritage while addressing contemporary societal challenges. At the Peki-Dzake retreat, keynote speaker Togbe Dzeha III reminded presbyters that true leadership must be rooted in inner purity, honesty, and accountability rather than mere outward appearances. The training, which has contributed to the church's stability for nearly two decades, addressed systemic issues such as declining congregational commitment and financial constraints. Speakers, including Rev. Michael Kungu and Togbe Deiga Kwadzo Dei XII, highlighted the necessity of sacrificial service and continuous learning, urging leaders to lead by example to navigate the complex landscape of modern ministry. Complementing this educational focus, the Moderator of the EPCG, Rt. Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. Bliss Divine Kofi Agbeko, issued a stern warning to 18 newly ordained pastors regarding the rise of predatory "false prophets." Addressing the clergy at Adaklu Waya, the Moderator charged the new ministers to prioritize the spiritual well-being of their congregants over the pursuit of material wealth or the construction of physical buildings. He underscored that their primary role is to protect the flock from deceptive teachings while actively engaging in community service and promoting environmental cleanliness as a reflection of divine order. Ultimately, the synergy between the church and traditional leadership remains a cornerstone of the EPCG’s strategy for community development. Togbe Agbobada IV, the Dufia of Adaklu-Anfoe, called for sustained collaboration between religious and local authorities to foster regional growth. By prioritizing rigorous leadership training and ethical vigilance, the EPCG aims to produce a generation of leaders capable of addressing both the spiritual and socio-economic needs of their congregations, ensuring the church remains a beacon of integrity and service in Ghana.

Mfantsiman Girls and St. Louis SHS Lead 2026 NSMQ Qualifications as Presbyterian Church Promotes Disability Inclusion
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Mfantsiman Girls and St. Louis SHS Lead 2026 NSMQ Qualifications as Presbyterian Church Promotes Disability Inclusion

The regional qualifiers for the 2026 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) have ignited fierce academic competition across Ghana, with several powerhouse schools already securing their places in the national championship. Mfantsiman Girls' Senior High School delivered a dominant performance in the Central Region, while St. Louis SHS and Ejisuman SHS emerged victorious in the Ashanti Regional Qualifiers. These wins mark critical milestones for the institutions as they prepare for the national stage, with Mfantsiman Girls achieving an impressive 61 points to outclass Apam SHS and Odoben SHS, securing their third consecutive qualification in the process. In the Ashanti Region, St. Louis Senior High School staged a remarkable comeback in Contest Two to book their spot. After overcoming an early deficit in a contest marked by multiple lead changes, the Kumasi-based school finished with 53 points, finishing ahead of Jachie Pramso SHS and Kumasi Girls' SHS. Although the team's coach expressed a desire for a larger winning margin, the victory marks a triumphant return for St. Louis after narrowly missing the 2025 championship. Similarly, Ejisuman SHS cruised to qualification in their opening contest with 51 points, maintaining a significant lead over St. Jerome SHS and regional debutants Onwe SHS. Beyond the academic arena, the Presbyterian Church of Ghana is taking significant steps toward social inclusion through education and policy reform. The church's Department of Social Services (DSS) recently reaffirmed its commitment to the full participation of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in all activities through a new disability policy. This framework aims to ensure active involvement and representation of PWDs in decision-making processes. To support this initiative, a National Committee on Disability has been established, focusing on training church members and leaders to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment across all levels of the church's operations. As the NSMQ regional qualifiers continue, the focus remains on the "best-performing losing schools" who still have a chance to secure a slot in the national championship based on their high scores despite not winning their specific contests. Schools like Jachie Pramso and Kumasi Girls' SHS remain in contention for these wildcard slots. For the already qualified schools, the next phase involves rigorous preparation to improve upon previous national performances, such as St. Louis SHS's semi-final run in 2023. The 2026 championship promises to be a major showcase of Ghana's brightest young minds as they vie for the prestigious national title.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Lydia Aziato Highlights 94 Global Partnerships as UHAS Celebrates 2026 International Day
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Vice-Chancellor Prof. Lydia Aziato Highlights 94 Global Partnerships as UHAS Celebrates 2026 International Day

The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in the Volta Region has celebrated its 2026 International Day, an event dedicated to fostering cultural diversity and strengthening global academic collaborations. Vice-Chancellor Professor Lydia Aziato revealed that the institution currently maintains 94 active international partnerships, which have become instrumental in enhancing student training and faculty development. The celebration served as a platform to honor the contributions of international stakeholders and highlight the university's commitment to becoming a globally competitive health sciences institution through shared knowledge and resource exchange. During the event, Prof. Aziato specifically commended the pivotal role of the Cuban faculty, whose support was foundational in the establishment of the UHAS School of Medicine. She also acknowledged the significant contributions from international faculty members and partners hailing from Nigeria, India, and South Africa. Professor Elvis Tarkang, the Dean of International Programmes, reinforced this sentiment by stating that cultural diversity is not merely a social asset but a critical component of academic excellence and institutional identity. This diversity, according to the university leadership, provides the necessary breadth of perspective required to address complex health challenges both locally and globally. Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Carlien Jooste from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in South Africa urged higher education institutions to move beyond superficial diversity. She emphasized that internationalisation must be deeply embedded within an institution's strategic vision, curriculum, and academic planning rather than being treated as an isolated administrative function. Dr. Jooste advocated for a critical evaluation of international initiatives, suggesting that true success lies in creating an inclusive environment where every individual feels empowered and respected. She proposed practical measures, such as peer mentoring, cultural events, and joint research partnerships, to foster a more integrated academic community. The event also featured insights from UNESCO representative Mr. Edmond Moukala, who stressed the importance of cross-cultural understanding in preparing students to become responsible global citizens. The day was marked by vibrant cultural performances and expressions from the international student body and faculty, showcasing the rich tapestry of backgrounds present at the university. As UHAS continues to expand its global footprint, the 2026 International Day underscores the belief that diversity is a primary driver of innovation, essential for exploring and solving the future challenges of health and education.