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Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong

UCC Collaborates with Huawei Technologies to Provide Smart Campus Solutions

20 Jan, 2025 By DIS

The University of Cape Coast is collaborating with Huawei Technologies to introduce smart campus solutions to enhance teaching, research and extension services.

To this end, Huawei Technologies will work with the University to provide customised design solutions, as well as data integration, scenario integration, infrastructure, training, and maintenance services, through world-class project management solutions.

Speaking at a meeting with officials of Huawei Technologies, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, noted that UCC was exploring avenues to deploy smart solutions to create a seamless platform for carrying out its administrative and academic operations. He welcomed Huawei Technologies for showing interest to collaborate with UCC to achieve that objective. 

“We want to create the best experience for faculty, staff and students to play their roles effectively and efficiently to reaffirm UCC’s status as a university with global recognition” he noted.

The leader of the Huawei delegation, Mr. Ian Zhu, said his company had a wide range of services including smart classrooms, smart campus, and research innovation. 

He noted that the solution offered customizable solutions such as hybrid learning, collaborative classroom, digital classroom, intelligent collaboration, safe campus, school connectivity, smart and campus network.

Mr. Ian Zhu making a presentation at the meeting

Mr. Zhu indicated that Huawei offered student-centered hybrid learning and digital classroom solutions for both lecturers and students.

He said Huawei was actively working on cultivating qualified talent in the field of higher education to promote the integration of education with hands-on industry practice by encouraging students' practical learning that will prepare them for the markets.

Present at the meeting were the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto and Gideon Enoch Abbeyquaye (Esq.); Director, Directorate of Research Innovation and Consultancy (DRIC), Prof. David Teye Doku, and Director, Information, Communications and Technology Services (DICTS), Dr. John K. Edumadze and other office holders of UCC.

Source: Documentation and Information Section

Pro Vice-Chancellor pays working visit to Directorates

14 Jan, 2025 By DIS

The newly-appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Prof. Denis Aheto, has paid a day’s visit to familiarize and formally introduce himself to some administrative Directors of the University.

Prof. Aheto, who was accompanied by the Director of Public Affairs, Major Kofi Baah Bentum (rtd), visited the Directorates of Human Resource, Public Affairs, Information and Communication Services, Consular and General Services, and the Legal Office.

At the meetings, the Pro Vice-Chancellor interacted with the directors and assured them of his unflinching support during his tenure in office.

Prof. Denis Aheto explaining a point in one of the meetings

He used the occasion to outline his vision to help the Vice-Chancellor to enable the University to mobilize resources from development partners. 

“We cannot build a university solely with school fees,” he continued

He emphasised the critical role of staff development and ensured that he would use his good offices to build the capacities of staff in the University.

“The development of the human resource capital is a crucial issue in all organizations. The greatest asset of every organisation is the staff. As such, we need to invest the required resources to regularly update the knowledge, skills and competencies of staff, the most important resource in the University,” he said.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor said Graduate School was on the front burner of his vision and said he would do his possible best to improve the fortunes of the School to woo more students.

For their part, the Directors congratulated Prof. Aheto on his appointment and elevation and gave their fullest assurance that their directorates will ensure he succeeds.

They told the Pro Vice-Chancellor about the challenges militating against their directorates and asked him to address those challenges to ensure efficiency in their operations.

The Senior Assistant Registrar at the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Alfred Ghartey, was present at the separate meetings.

Directorate of Human Resource

The first port of call for the Pro Vice-Chancellor  was the Directorate of Human Resource.

He was welcomed by the Director of the Directorate of Human Resource, Mr. Adom Konadu, who congratulated  Prof. Aheto on his appointment and elevation.

The Director indicated the readiness of the Directorate  to employ new staff to replace staff on retirement immediately its get clearance from government.

For his part, Prof. Aheto promised to work with staff of the Directorate  to achieve his vision for the University.

Directorate of Public Affairs

At the Directorate  of Public Affairs, the Director, Major Kofi Baah Bentum (rtd), congratulated Prof. Aheto on his appointment.

He used the opportunity  to tell Pro Vice-Chancellor some of the challenges militating against the Directorate  and asked him to use his good offices to address them to ensure efficiency.

On his part, Prof. Aheto asked that the Directorate  conducted needs assessment and assured the Directorate  of his support.

Directorate  of Consular and General Services

The Pro Vice-Chancellor also met with the senior officers  of the Directorate  of Consular and General Services. He was received to the Directorate by the Head of Immigration Section, Dr. Mary Obimpeh.

The Headmistress University Primary School, Mrs. Georgina Aglobitse, told the Pro Vice-Chancellor that the school was understaffed  and contract staff teachers were inadequately remunerated.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor, for his part, promised to do his best to address the  issues.

Legal Affairs Office

The Pro Vice-Chancellor  ended his visit at the Legal Office, where he was welcomed by Mr. Solomon Gyesi, a legal officer.

 

 

POJOBA congratulates Pro Vice-Chancellor

14 Jan, 2025 By DIS

The Cape Coast branch of the Pope John Old Boys Association (POJOBA) has congratulated Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto on his recent appointment as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast.

According to the group, Prof. Aheto, who is an old student of the School and for that matter a member of the association, by his elevation deserved every bit of commendation for making himself and POJOBAs across the world proud.

The Pope John Senior High School and Junior Seminary Old Students group, which was led by the patron, Mr. Douglas Frimpong Nuroh, said the association was “proud of you for having come this far to assume this position in your academic career”.

“We congratulate you on your hard-earned success. You are proof that good things come to those who are willing to sacrifice to achieve their goals. Words can’t express how proud members of the association are,” he told Prof Aheto. 

He added that the Pro Vice-Chancellor was an embodiment of  his alma mater's motto, "Vela Damus – We Set Sail," 

Prof. Denis Aheto(middle) receiving a citation from an executive member of POJOBA

He assured him of the association's unwavering support, stating, "POJOBA is rallying behind you and is ready to help out in any way possible to ensure a successful term in office."

According to him, Prof. Aheto's achievement had inspired POJOBAs and current students to work hard in their fields of endeavour to achieve heights wherever they found themselves.  

“We urge the current generation of students to emulate you for what you have achieved for yourself," he continued.

In his remarks, the Pro Vice-Chancellor expressed his profound appreciation to POJOBA, especially the Cape Coast branch for the honour done him.

He said: "I am surprised, humbled, and lost for words because I did not expect this visit." He added, "I am extremely happy for the reminder that POJOBA colleagues are ready to support me."

He recounted his days at the Pope John Senior High School and Junior Seminary  as a student, and said that period shaped his love for academics.

The  Pope John Senior High School and Junior Seminary Old Students presented a citation to the Pro Vice-Chancellor.

Members of the association in the company of the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Aheto, later visited the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, in his office.

 

Source: Documentation and Information Section

 

 

 

UCC releases Four New Yellow-Fleshed Cassava Varieties

10 Jan, 2025 By DIS

The Department of Crop Science of the School of Agriculture at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has released four new yellow-fleshed cassava varieties. 

The varieties, Hewale Duade, Adom bankye, Taah bankye and Atsike gbeli, were developed through a collaborative effort between the BINARI-GAEC and International Institute of Tropical Agriculture.

Purpose

These varieties are designed to be high-yielding, rich in beta-carotene, resistant to major biotic stresses, particularly CMD, and possess farmer-preferred traits such as high dry matter content and mealiness. This project aims to improve food security, enhance nutrition, and contribute to Ghana’s agricultural resilience by introducing these nutrient-dense varieties. Adopting these new varieties is anticipated to support public health goals and drive sustainable growth within Ghana’s agricultural sector, benefiting local communities and the expanding cassava-based industries.

A Renowned Cassava Expert and Lecturer at the Department of Crop Science, Dr. Emmanuel Ogyiri Adu, who presented the varieties before the body in charge of officially releasing varieties, that is the National Varietal Release and Registration Committee (NVRRC) for consideration and approval, said the varieties were high-yielding, rich in beta-carotene, and above all possessing farmer preferred traits such as high dry matter content and mealiness which makes them easy poundable into fufu and eaten as ampesi. 

Dr. Emmanuel Ogyiri Adu explaining a point during the field inspection

“The introduction of these nutrient-dense varieties will improve food security, enhance nutrition, reduce malnutrition in children and above all contribute to Ghana’s agricultural resilience,” he continued. 

Dr. Ogyiri Adu urged stakeholders to adopt these new varieties rich in vitamin A for gari production, particularly for Senior High Schools, where gari is widely consumed.

Commercialization 

The Cassava Expert said the Department of Crop Science and the School of Agriculture had plans to scale up production by cultivating over 30 acres of cassava at the University’s 419 acres at Twifo Wamaso. “The purpose is to supply planting material to farmers nationwide and also to process and sell vitamin A biofortified gari to the University community and especially students at a very affordable price,” he added.

He also noted that the next phase involved training of farmers on cultivation techniques, good agronomic practices and also providing planting materials for large-scale replication.

Field inspection and exhibition 

At the field, Dr. Emmanuel Ogyiri Adu (Lead Investigator) explained the unique characteristics of the four yellow-fleshed cassava varieties to the team members. There was an exhibition on various products such as cassava flour, cassava cake, cassava pie, cassava doughnut, gari, kokonte, agbliklakro, fufu and ampesi. 

Keystakeholders at the exhibition

Research

The proposed varieties were mutants developed by Dr. Godwin Amernope, a Principal Research Scientist at BNARI-Ghana Atomic Energy Commission and IITA collaboration from 2014 to 2017. In 2017, these promising genotypes were distributed to the Department of Crop Science, UCC as part of the doctoral thesis of Emmanuel Ogyiri Adu for Advanced yield, Multi locational, On- and Off- Farm Trials aimed at varietal release. After seven years (2017 -2024) of advanced yield trials and farmer-field testing by the Department of Crop Science under the School of Agriculture of the University of Cape Coast these cassava genotypes were evaluated  for their stable yields (33–45 t/ha), high beta-carotene content (6–10 µg/g), high dry matter (27–36%), low hydrogen cyanide levels (30–40 mg/100 g), mealiness and resistance to CMD.

Commendation

The Director, Crop Services MoFA and Chairman for NVRRC, Dr. Solomon Gyan Ansah, lauded the collaboration between UCC, the BINARI-GAEC, and the Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). Dr. Gyan Ansah confirmed that the varieties were high yielding, elevated carotenoid content, mealiness, resistance to CMD and high dry matter content.

Chairman of NVRRC, Dr. Gyan Ansah addressing the gathering

Recommendation of the four yellow fleshed cassava 

After inspecting the crops on the field and assessing the presentations on each of the proposed varieties, the Chairman of NVRRC, Dr. Gyan Ansah, said the four yellow- fleshed cassava had been recommended for release considering their substantial benefit to the nation and the agriculture sector.

In a closing remark, the Head of Department of Crop Science, Prof. Michael Osei Adu, expressed gratitude to the NVRRC for accepting all the proposed varieties. He asked for more collaborations between MoFA and the University to ensure proper sanitizing and multiplication of the varieties to farmers.  

Project Support

The project received substantial support from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), with Dr. Elizabeth Parkes of IITA-Zambia playing a pivotal role in securing funding. Other key contributors include Peter Ilelubey of IITA, Dr. Godwin Amernope, Principal Research Scientist at BINARI-GAEC and the Vice chancellor of UENR, Prof. Elvis Asare Bediako, who initiated the collaboration with UCC. 

Appreciation 

Dean of the School of Agriculture, Prof. Henry De-graft Acquah, the Vice Dean of the School of Agriculture, Prof. Paul Agu Asare, the Head of the Department of Crop Science, Prof. Michael Osei Adu, former Head of the Department of Crop Science, Prof. Kingsley Taah, James Nyarko Amoah, a Technologist and all farmers that were involved in the on-farm trials. 

The event was chaired by Dean of the School of Agriculture, Prof. Henry De-graft Acquah.

A group photograph of officials from the School of Agriculture, BINARI-GAEC and International Institute of Tropical Agriculture.

Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto

Current Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Cape Coast

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NGO presents 50,000 tablets to Biomedical and Clinical Research Centre

08 Jan, 2025 By DIS

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Good Neighbors Ghana, has presented 50,000 tablets of Praziquantel valued at $5,750 to the Biomedical and Clinical Research Centre of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) to support the treatment of Schistosomiasis in communities within the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly.

This gesture follows earlier interactions between Good Neighbors and the Centre, during which the two organisations engaged with communities relying on the Kakum River as a water source. 

These engagements revealed significant pollution of the river, contributing to the high prevalence of Schistosomiasis in the Cape Coast area.

The donated tablets

The Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof. Elvis O. Ameyaw, who represented the Provost of the College of Health and Allied Sciences (CoHAS), lauded the NGO for its kind gesture and thanked them for coming to ease the challenges of the people within the affected communities.

“The donation is a testament to the fact that UCC conducts impactful research that yields positive results. We can assure you that the drugs will get to the intended communities,” he continued.

Speaking on behalf of Good Neighbors, Naumun Heo, said that the initiative marked the  first project of the NGO in the western part of Ghana.

Naumun Heo making remarks at event

He used the occasion to express gratitude to UCC for the impactful research and added that the NGO would continue to partner with the Centre to alleviate the plight of communities.

“This is the beginning of our partnership, and we are looking at expanding our collaboration beyond this donation,” he said.

The Centre’s Director, Prof. Samuel Kyei, on his part, expressed appreciation to Good Neighbors for its humanitarian gesture. 

He emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the success of the “Schisto” project.

Prof. Samuel Kyei

“This is not an isolated project; that is why we want to get all stakeholders on board,”he remarked.

Prof. Kyei further expressed hope for a lasting partnership with Good Neighbors and other stakeholders, such as the Ghana Health Service, to ensure the continuity of the project.

Source: Documentation and Information Section

 

 

UCC North America Alumni donates equipment to Disability Study Centre

08 Jan, 2025 By DIS

The North America Alumni Group of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has donated equipment and accessories valued at GH₵‎ 75,000 to the newly-established Disability Study Centre.

The donation, which took place at the Centre,  included Smart Security Cameras, Sony Sound Recorders, Otoscope, Headsets, HP Laser Printer, Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS),  LG UHD TV, and Air Conditioners.

Donation

In a remark, the President of the Association, Prof. Kobina Armoo, who presented the equipment on behalf of the group, explained their motivation for the donation.

"Dr. Sefakor Komabu-Pomeyie is one of our members. She is currently in a wheelchair. When she was in UCC she was using clutches. She slipped and fell while she was climbing the science stairs . She was subsequently confined to a wheelchair. She is now a lecturer at the University of Vermont. She has a centre at the university that takes care of the needs of persons with disability. She called me and I linked her to faculty at the College of Education of Studies, “ he remarked.

Prof. Kobina Armoo

“Consequently, the alumni group raised funds to buy the equipment," he continued.

"The only thing we get out of this is satisfaction. There is satisfaction that we can still contribute and show our support to our alma mater," he said. 

Additionally, Prof. Kobina Armoo made a personal presentation of Wireless Keyboards, Computer Mouse, Microphone, Mini Projector, Writing Pad, Mini Screen Magnifier, HDMI Cable and Laptops.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Aheto, who could not hold his excitement at the demonstration of love by the alumni expressed his profound appreciation to Prof. Kobina Armoo and his colleagues for the kind gesture.

Prof. Aheto also made a personal donation of  GH₵‎ 75,000  to the Centre and assured them of his continuous support.

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Aheto speaking at the event

On his part, the Provost of the College of Education Studies,  Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis, expressed his gratitude for the donation, highlighting the Centres critical need for certain equipment.

He assured the alumni group that the Centre would adopt a proper maintenance culture to ensure that the equipment was properly used to last for years to come.

The Head of Department for Education and Psychology, Prof. Mark Amponsah,  welcomed the support and urged other charitable individuals and organisations to emulate the gesture.

Source: Documentation and Information Section

 

 

28th GUSA Games open at UCC

07 Jan, 2025 By DIS

The 28th Ghana University Sports Association Games (GUSA) is officially underway at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) after a breathtaking opening ceremony at the New Examination Centre.

Running from 3rd to January 18, the sporting event, a celebration of athleticism and human spirit, is on the theme: “Repositioning University Sports for National Development,” 

16 public universities are competing in 12 disciplines, including athletics, basketball, football, hockey, volleyball, handball, tennis, and goalball.

Participating institutions include the host, University of Cape Coast, University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University for Development Studies (UDS), Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills, Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED) and the University of Education, Winneba (UEW). 

Others are the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), C.K Tedam University Technology and Applied Sciences, University for Environment and Sustainable Development, University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Ghana Communication Technology University, University of Media Arts and Communication (UniMAC), University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), University of Energy and Natural Resources, and University of Business and Integrated Development Studies.

Parade

A major highlight of the ceremony was a parade of institutions, where participating athletes proudly represented their universities in colourful outfits, embodying the spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong lit the flames

The flame of the GUSA 2024 was also lit amid fanfare.

Compete with integrity and sportsmanship

Addressing the guests, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, who declared the Games officially opened, stressed the importance of unity and showcasing universities' rich talents through sports. 

Prof. Boampong assured that UCC would deliver an unforgettable Games.

He said it was heart-warming to witness the role sports played in bringing universities together.

The Vice-Chancellor urged participating universities to compete with integrity and sportsmanship, to honour the values of fair play and mutual respect in the competition.

 Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong addressing the guests

According to him, UCC had a proud history of success in the Games and was bent on winning the competition.

He said sports had become a powerful vehicle for social change, economic growth, and national pride.

He called on stakeholders to create a strong and robust framework that proritises university sports as a cornerstone of national development.

“The investment we make in university sports today would yield dividends for the country tomorrow”, he said.

He called on the government to channel resources towards upgrading and expansion of sports infrastructure in universities.

“May this year’s university games be a testament to our collective passion and a showcase of friendship and connections we build along the way,” he added.

Strengthen community bonds

The Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, indicated that university sports was beyond mere recreation but served as a vital tool for nurturing talents, promoting healthy lifestyles and instilling essential values such as discipline, team work, and resilience in future leaders.

“As the host university and through the LOC, we are committed to making the GUSA Games an unforgettable experience not just for its competitive spirit but its ability to bring us together as one academic and sporting community to exhibit the highest standards of sportsmanship.” She added.

Prof. Rosemond Boohene

She reminded the participants that the values and relationships they build at the games were as important as trophies and medals they would win.

Prof. Boohene described the games as an opportunity to celebrate sports and strengthen community bonds.

Uphold the values of discipline, teamwork and respect

The President of GUSA, Mr. Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko, expressed appreciation for UCC’s commitment to investing in sporting facilities.

To him, one of the direct impacts of hosting the GUSA games was the development of infrastructure.

“This event offers host university the opportunity to invest in state-of-the-art facilities that do not only serve student athletes but also serve the surrounding communities.” he added.

Mr. Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko

The President also urged all stakeholders to commit themselves to achieve a successful GUSA Games.

He said he was optimistic that the athletes would do well and participate in world competitions.

“GUSA remains committed to providing the necessary support and platform for our student athletes to thrive,” said Mr. Tanko.

He urged all participants to uphold the values of discipline, teamwork and respect. “Let us compete fiercely but fairly, remembering that true sportsmanship lies in mutual and natural respect and camaraderie”, he added.

Source: Documentation and Information Section

Prof. Rosemond Boohene handing over to Prof. Denis Aheto

Prof. Denis Aheto Assumes Office as Pro VC of UCC

01 Jan, 2025 By DIS

Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto has been ushered into office as the Pro Vice-Chancellor of University of Cape Coast (UCC) for a three-year term from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2027.

 At a hand over ceremony, the immediate past Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, whose term of office had ended  handed over to Prof Aheto.

 Speaking at the function, Prof. Aheto noted that his vision was to provide strategic leadership to foster a transformative, inclusive and diverse academic environment that empowers excellence in research, teaching and outreach for wider impact on society.

 Prof. Denis W. Aheto giving his acceptance speech

He indicated that his vision was inspired by the strategic vision of the University (Corporate Strategic Plan, 2023-2027), and that of the Vice-Chancellor (2020-2024), which were aimed at transforming the UCC into a world-class entrepreneurial university.

 Prof.  Aheto pledged to support the Vice-Chancellor and management to create a culture of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and to promote a sense of community and belonging among students, faculty, and staff.

Members of the University and family members of the immediate past and new Pro Vice-Chancellor at the function

“I will prioritise the development of our faculty and staff, recognising that they are our most valuable assets. I will work to create opportunities for professional development, postgraduate education, mentorship, and global recognition, and will ensure that our faculty and staff have the resources and support they need to excel in their roles,” he added.

Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto in his new office

Prof. Aheto thanked the University Council for the trust they had reposed in him to serve in this critical role.

 He paid glowing tribute to Prof. Boohene laying a solid foundation adding that “I pledge to build upon the successes you have achieved. Your leadership and dedication to the university have been exemplary, and I will strive to emulate your example.”

 In her remark, Prof. Boohene noted that her term as Pro Vice-Chancellor had been one of the most fulfilling chapters of her career and indicated that “As I reflect on these past three years, I am filled with gratitude for the collective efforts that have shaped our journey.”

 Prof. Boohene noted that together with management, new programmes had been introduced, the University received wide visibility through high impact rankings and strengthened industry collaborations.

 Prof. Mrs. Rosemond Boohene speaking at the function

“These achievements are the results of teamwork, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” she elaborated.

 She was confident that Prof. Aheto would bring his wealth of experience, fresh perspective, and a passion for excellence that will undoubtedly propel University of Cape Coast to greater heights.  “I am confident that under your leadership, the university will continue to flourish and expand its impact locally and globally” she averred.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko-Boampong commended Prof. Boohene for her dedicated services to the University and indicated that management would continue to tap into her experience as the University continued to strive for excellence in all facets of the institution.

Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, delivering an address at the function 

While congratulating Prof. Aheto on his appointment, Prof. Boampong was optimistic that his new role as Pro Vice-Chancellor would elevate UCC, promote a culture of innovation and inclusivity that reflects the University's vision.

 A former Pro Vice-Chancellor of UCC. Prof. John Nelson Buah, advised the new Pro Vice-Chancellor to always consult the Vice-Chancellor in taking decisions as far as the University was concerned.

Prof. John Nelson Buah giving a word of advice

 He urged him to be humble and approachable and also listen attentively to everyone who reaches out to him

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