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Goldfields Ghana Foundation sponsors 40 UCC Students

17 Dec, 2024 By DIS

Goldfields Ghana Foundation has presented scholarships to 40 students of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) for the   2024/2025 academic year.

The beneficiary students were drawn from the 19 host communities of the Tarkwa and Damang Mines.

Presenting the cheque, the Executive Secretary of Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, Mr. Abdel Razak Yakubu, urged the awardees to effectively utilise the scholarship to excel in their education, and assured them of the continuous support of the  Foundation.

He explained that the Scholarship Programme was open to students who had gained admission into any tertiary institution in Ghana.

Mr. Abdel Razak Yakubu

To qualify, he said, one must either be a native of any of the company’s 19 host communities, or must be resident in that community before Gold Fields started its operations in Ghana.

“Applicants complete a form that is issued by the Foundation to community chiefs and assembly members. Before a candidate is considered for an interview, the chief must endorse the form as proof that the candidate indeed satisfies the residency condition,” Mr. Yakubu said.

He indicated that the ultimate desire of the Foundation was to develop and maintain the culture of giving back to society.

However, he said financial constraints had been a major obstacle for many brighter young minds, and these forced them to abandon their educational aspirations and settle for a life that was far below their potential.

“As Goldfields Ghana Foundation, it is our duty to bridge this gap and provide opportunities for growth and development,” he stated.

That, according to Mr. Abdel Razak Yakubu, the Scholarship Scheme was not just about financial aid, but it was about recognising and celebrating talented resilient students for their desire

The Registrar, Mr. Enoch Gideon Abbeyquaye, who received the cheque, expressed appreciation to the Foundation for its benevolence and investment in students.

Mr. Abbeyquaye said naturally, educational scholarships provided an opportunity for many people to go to school and actualize their dreams and support society.

Mr. Enoch Gideon Abbeyquaye

He advised the beneficiaries to show gratitude to the Foundation by studying hard to make  the scholarships worthwhile.

In a remark, the Head of Students’ Financial Support Office (StuFSO),UCC, Ms. Grace Mensah, congratulated the scholarship recipients for their hard work and perseverance and encouraged them to remain focused on their studies.

 “The only difficulty you should face is studying. Goldfields Ghana Foundation believes in your potential, and that is the reason it is investing in your dreams and future,” she said.

A level 300 Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, Ms. Mary Osei, on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed appreciation to the Foundation for the support.

Source: Documentation and Information Section

 

UCC graduates 2,559 postgraduate students

13 Dec, 2024 By DIS

A total of 2,559 students who pursued various postgraduate programmes at the University of Cape Coast have graduated at the 57th Congregation of the University.

The number was made up of 93 PhD, 240 MPhil, 34 MCom, 4 Master of Nursing (MN), 532 Master of Education (MEd), and 607 Master of Business Administration (MBA). The rest are 10 Executive MBA, 281 Master of Science (M.Sc), 254 Master of Arts (M.A), 85 Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), 2 Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and 4 Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies.

In a speech read on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, commended the graduates on their graduation and charged them to venture into entrepreneurship.

“We have no doubt that we have empowered you with knowledge and skills that will enable you make a positive impact in society and the world at large. It is our wish that having received quality education and skills, you do not wait to be employed by the government. Go out there, and create jobs,” he noted.

Some PhD graduates being robed

He expressed gratitude to the Brew Butler family for helping to establish a research fund in 2014 and for their continuous support of postgraduate research work.  

“The fund has brought relief to a number of postgraduate students.  From 2017 to 2024, the number of beneficiaries increased from 27 to 403, with the highest beneficiary receiving GH¢5,000. Aside this, there is also a special grant purposely meant to support PhD students in their research work. In this category those who qualify are awarded GH¢10,000,” he added  

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the Graduate School had implemented an electronic thesis/dissertation platform to enable students to submit their research work.  

He said the University would continue to churn out graduates with strong ethics and commitment to society.

He urged the graduates to find more innovative ways of doing business using their knowledge and skills to impact society.

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC

 

CoDE-UCC produces pioneer Switch 3.1 Programme graduates

13 Dec, 2024 By DIS

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has graduated the first batch of the 3-semester career-oriented programme known as the SWITCH 3.1.

Run by the College of Distance Education (CoDE) UCC, the programme offers specialisations in various fields, including Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, English, Management, and Home Economics.

These fields were carefully selected to align with national priorities and address gaps in teaching expertise across Ghana.

The first cohort of 1,736 students were enrolled on the programme in October 2023. Out of the number, 1,407 students, representing 81%, duly graduated during the 7th Session of the 57th Congregation.

In a speech read on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, he said the prime objective of the programme was to empower teachers, enhance educational outcomes, and contribute to the development of Ghana's education system. 

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene delivering the Vice-Chancellor’s address

The Vice-Chancellor said the graduates, upon completing the programme, were well-equipped to lead positive change in their communities and advised them to put the knowledge acquired to good use and create jobs for themselves.

He urged the students to be innovative and drive social impact, as they were entrusted with the University's legacy.

He reaffirmed UCC’s steadfastness in its vision of becoming an internationally renowned institution for teacher education and research.

The Vice-Chancellor congratulated the graduates for their hard work and determination and added that they had reached that pivotal milestone not only for themselves but also for their spouses, parents, and guardians.

He reminded them that through their education, they had expanded their knowledge and reshaped their outlook on life, and therefore urged them to use the experiences gained as the launch pad for their future success.

Mr. Jesse Afriyie, the valedictorian

The valedictorian, Mr. Jesse Afriyie, graduated with a CGPA of 3.9.

He was awarded a scholarship to pursue a postgraduate degree with CoDE-UCC and a cash prize.

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC

UCC holds 1st -6th Session of 57th graduation ceremony

12 Dec, 2024 By DIS

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has held its 57th graduation ceremony for graduates from the four colleges of the University.

They are College of Education Studies, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, College of Humanities and Legal Studies and the College of Health and Allied Sciences

In his keynote address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, commended the graduates for defying all odds to successfully complete their programmes and encouraged them to use the knowledge and skills acquired to better the lot of society.

Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong addressing the congregation

He stated that the University, for the past four years had been ranked first both in Ghana and West Africa, and amongst the best in Africa by the Times Higher Education World Universities Ranking.

“Additionally, on research quality in Ghana and West Africa, UCC is unmatched on the number one spot. UCC is among the top 15 universities in Africa and the only university in Ghana that is in the top 15 ranked universities in Africa. UCC has also maintained its position as one of the leading research- intensive universities globally,” he added.

This, according to him, demonstrates the University’s enormous contributions to higher education and the impact of its scholarly output in Ghana and Africa.

“This achievement emanates from the hard work and commitment of our faculty towards engaging in impactful research. I say Ayekoo to  UCC management, staff, students and stakeholders for their contributions towards maintaining our enviable position in the 2025 World Universities ranking,” he continued.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene presenting an award to a graduand. With her is the Acting Director of Academic Affairs, Dr. Atta Yeboah-Sarpong

 “UCC under my leadership will strive to improve or at least sustain our research output. Faculty and staff will be encouraged to continue to conduct cutting-edge research that will lead to innovative output which can be commercialised and patented for societal benefits,” the Vice-Chancellor stressed.

 Consequently, the Vice-Chancellor charged graduands to strive and uphold the reputation of the University as the best in the country and West Africa.

He announced that the University was determined to construct residential facilities for students by working with  UCC branch of Ghana Universities Staff Superannuation Scheme (GUSSS).

According to him, plans were far advanced for UCC to host the Ghana Universities Sports Association (GUSA) Games for 2024.

“The event, originally planned to take place in November 2024, had been moved to January, 2025,” he added.

He used the opportunity to eulogize Mrs. Laura Doku and Mr. Nathaniel Ampah of the Documentation and Information Section for designing the logo and mascot for the GUSA games.

 He commended UCC Youngsters Football Club for qualifying to play in the Access Bank Division One League for the 2024/25 league season organised by the Ghana Football Association.

Most Reverend Titus Awortwe Pratt speaking at the ceremony

A member of UCC Governing Council, Most Reverend Titus Awortwe Pratt,  who represented the Chairman  of the Council, Rev. Prof. Harold S. Amonoo-Kuofi entreated the graduands to apply the knowledge and skills with discipline and diligence to guarantee them success.

“Go the extra mile in everything you do to excel,” he said, “refrain from anything that will bring the school’s name into disrepute.”

Source: Documentation and Information Section

Build valuable networks for Professional Development- NSS Personnel told

04 Dec, 2024 By DIS

National Service Personnel of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) have been advised to build valuable networks as they form part of the engines through which they could progress in society.

They were urged to respect networks as they built them.

Organised by the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in collaboration with TAGDev 2.0 programme, the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), and the Mastercard Foundation, the second day of the four-day capacity-building workshop aimed at equipping participants with essential networking and personal development skills.

Mr. Jonathan Akure

During an interactive session on the theme, "Personal Mastery (Goal Setting) and Reflection, Growth Mindset Development, Time Management, and Focus”, the Chief Executive Officer of Gimel Entrepreneurship Consultancy, Mr. Jonathan Akure, who gave the advice, noted that goal setting was a cornerstone to personal and professional success, stating, "It is important to set goals because they will help you work hard and serve as motivation."

Mr. Akure also introduced participants to the SMART framework for effective goal setting, which involves crafting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

To deepen understanding, he complimented his presentation with real-life examples and case study questions, enabling participants to relate the concepts to practical scenarios.

A section of participants in the workshop

Touching on "Collaborative Team Development Using Interdisciplinary Projects and Leadership Programmes," Mr. Akure led participants to explore the steps of design thinking, which include empathy, define, ideate, prototype, test, and implement. The trainees were organised into groups and tasked to develop business ideas using the design thinking process. The  facilitator engaged and inspired participants to think innovatively through teamwork.

Various teams presented their business ideas, demonstrating creativity and teamwork. The interactive format provided an opportunity for participants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

The workshop, which forms part of efforts to empower young leaders in agriculture and related fields, has continued to receive commendation from participants for its practical approach and relevance. They expressed their excitement for the remaining days, anticipating further opportunities to build their capacities and network with peers and experts.

Source: Documentation and Information Section

 

 

 

TAGDev 2.0 Project Empowers National Service Personnel with 21st Century Skills

03 Dec, 2024 By DIS

 

A Capacity-building workshop aimed at equipping participants with critical 21st Century Skills for professional development has been organised for some selected National Service personnel from the University of Cape Coast (UCC). 

Participants for the workshop were thoughtfully chosen, with particular emphasis on young women, Persons with disabilities (PWDs), and a select group of male participants.

The four-day training is being held under the auspices of the Transforming African Agricultural Universities to Meaningfully Contribute to Africa’s Growth and Development (TAGDev 2.0) programme; Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), and the Mastercard Foundation.

The workshop which was held at the School of Graduate Studies seeks to empower participants to become successful entrepreneurs and also equip them in the competitive job market.

The participants were taken through topics such as creativity, critical thinking, personal mastery, and soft skills such as teamwork and communication, which are vital for career and personal development.

 Prof. (Mrs.) Mavis Benneh Mensah giving her remark at the opening ceremony

Opening the workshop, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, who was represented by the Director of Centre for Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprise Development (CESSED), Prof. (Mrs.) Mavis Benneh Mensah encouraged participants to seize the opportunities presented by the workshop for personal development and success.

She indicated that the UCC as an inclusive university continues to create avenues to reinvigorate entrepreneurship spirit among its students through established offices like the Design Thinking and Innovation Hub and the Business Incubator. “We attach importance to equipping our students with entrepreneurial skills and to this end, our University runs Entrepreneurship as a liberal course for Level 300 undergraduate students” she noted.

She further stated that that the agricultural value chain presents a lucrative opportunity for young people to find dignified and fulfilling work. 

The TAGDev 2.0 Programme Coordinator, Prof. Festus Annor-Frempong, emphasised the broader purpose of the initiative, which aligns with the goal of empowering Africa's youth for socio-economic development.

He underscored the importance of the "Four Cs" in education: “Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration”.

Prof. Festus Annor-Frempong speaking at the workshop

Prof. Annor-Frempong encouraged participants to actively engage in the sessions and set specific goals for personal growth, particularly in entrepreneurial ventures like agriculture.

He urged the personnel to take every opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills, especially in a world where complacency and stagnation could lead to obsolescence.

The Regional Manager of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Cape Coast), Madam Benedicta Anita Mensah, inspired attendees with a call to confidence and resilience. 

Madam Benedicta Anita Mensah motivating the participants

"The skills you acquire in school are transferable to the job market—be confident in applying them," she stated. She also advised participants to cultivate creativity, humility, and strong interpersonal relationships while avoiding procrastination to thrive in dynamic work environments.

The Chairperson for the opening ceremony, Prof. Mavis S. B. Mensah, representing the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, underlined the value of effective networking and lifelong learning. She encouraged participants to explore opportunities in agriculture, describing it as a profitable and transformative sector.

Dr. Wincharles Coker

A Senior Lecturer at the Department of Communication Studies, Dr. Wincharles Coker, who took the personnel through soft skills training, stressed on the importance of effective communication, collaboration, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence to the development personal and professional success.

 He advised participants to hone the aforementioned skills to navigate workplace dynamics and achieve their goals.

About TAGDev 2.0 Programme

TAGDev 2.0 is a collaboration between RUFORUM, Mastercard Foundation, 12 African universities and the Global Confederation of Higher Education Associations for Agricultural and Life Sciences (GCHERA).

 The main objective is to strengthen universities and TVET institutions to better serve communities by skilling and empowering Africa's young people and their institutions to drive inclusive, equitable and climate resilient transformation of agriculture and agrifood systems. 

 Source: Documentation and Information Section

UCC Receives German Delegation

02 Dec, 2024 By DIS

The Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rosemond Boohene, has received a delegation from the FH Münster University of Applied Sciences, Germany, led by the International Projects Manager, Prof. Rolf Laakmann.

The delegation was on campus to explore ways UCC faculty members would liaise with FH Münster University of Applied Sciences faculty to work on a Project Proposal on Food and Business.

Prof. Boohene expressed her happiness for the visit and indicated that the University’s doors were open to them for more of such in the future.

Responding, the leader of the German delegation, Prof. Rolf Laakmann expressed his pleasure in meeting Prof. Boohene and called for continuous academic collaboration between the two universities.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor and the visitors further discussed possible ways of forging stronger academic ties and cooperation aimed at serving the interests of their students and staff.

The two sides also exchanged views on various academic issues of shared concern. They underscored the importance of multi-disciplinary and transdisciplinary research to address societal challenges.

Present at the meeting were the Dean of the Office of International Relations, Prof. Samuel Bert Boadi-Kusi, the Director of the Directorate of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance (DAPQA,) Prof. Daniel Agyapong, and Head of the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Prof. Dr. Ernest Abano.

The delegation accompanying Prof. Rolf Laakmann included Prof. Jan Makurat of the Centre of Competence for Humanitarian Relief Department of Good Nutrition Facilities and several high-ranking officials.

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC

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