- KTU rusticates students over exam malpractices
- 1,332 HND students graduate in 21st Congregation Ceremony
- University emphasizes "zero tolerance" for cheating and deceit
Koforidua Technical University (KTU) has rusticated several students for their involvement in examination malpractices, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining academic integrity and promoting honesty.
The decision was revealed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Owusu, who affirmed that it aligns with the university’s firm stance of “Zero tolerance for Examination Malpractices.”
“Recently, the University has had to rusticate some students for complicity in examination malpractices. As parents first and administrators and teachers second, such decisions are not easy to make. However, we need to build a society where honest labour is rewarded and not cheating and deceit,” Prof. Owusu stated. “This country is going nowhere if we do not take steps to combat indiscipline, particularly among our youth. The message is now clear; Koforidua Technical University has zero tolerance for Examination Malpractices,” he added.
Prof. Owusu made this statement during the 21st Congregation Ceremony of the university, held on its campus in the Eastern Region. The ceremony, themed “The Future of Science and Technology: The Role of Stakeholders,” saw the graduation of 1,332 Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates across various specialized programs.
During his address, Prof. Owusu urged the graduates to avoid arrogance and indiscipline in their future careers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professional conduct in the workplace after achieving such an important academic milestone.
He also expressed gratitude for the Ghc950,000 government allocation to the university, which will be used for improving academic facilities, infrastructure, and faculty development, as well as supporting research initiatives.
Dr. Kwesi Eduafo Yankey, the Chancellor of Koforidua Technical University, reassured parents and guardians of the institution’s commitment to providing students with a world-class education, designed to equip them with the skills needed to navigate the challenges of the 21st century. He encouraged the graduates to uphold the values of innovation, integrity, and impact that have been central to the university’s mission.
Dr. George Afrane, the former Rector of KTU and guest of honor at the ceremony, expressed deep concerns about the high unemployment rate in Ghana and across Africa. He stressed that significant investment in the agricultural sector could be a key solution to the problem.
“Regardless of who you work for, don’t underestimate it either. You can get into poultry, livestock, fish farming, vegetables, fruits, snail farming, etc. I know gainfully employed people who have completely left their secure 9 to 5 jobs to go into farming, and they have not regretted it,” Dr. Afrane said, urging the graduates to consider farming as a lucrative career option.
Dr. Afrane also reminded the graduates that hard work is crucial for success. “The common denominator for success is hard work and discipline. You need to work harder than I did when I was your age because the competition is keener these days than before,” he said. “All the 15 people in my graduating class got jobs even before the end of national service. Now, the majority of university graduates do not get employment in their field. So, you need to distinguish yourself, and you need to be flexible.”
He further emphasized, “If you are prepared to work hard, it doesn’t matter where you went to school or what program you studied, you will succeed, especially because in this country we are not used to working hard. People want the government to provide them with everything. If you watch TV, it’s always government this or government that. What about you?”
Koforidua Technical University, established in 1997 with just 47 HND students, now has a student population of 9,949 across five faculties offering HND and Bachelor’s degree programs. The university also has 14 master’s degree programs in various stages of accreditation. KTU has produced numerous engineering professionals who are now contributing to industries both in Ghana and internationally.
