- President Akufo-Addo calls for universities to collaborate with industries and communities.
- He inaugurates a new building at University of Development Studies (UDS).
- "No guarantor policy" increases tertiary education access by 60.3%.
- Government allocates GH₵12.8 billion to education sector.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasized the need for universities in Ghana to establish strong ties with government, industries, and the communities they serve. He believes this collaboration is crucial to ensure that research is aligned with the needs of society, contributing directly to the realization of national development goals.
The President made this call during the inauguration of a three-storey multi-purpose building at the University of Development Studies (UDS) in Nyankpala. The building, named the “Silver Jubilee Building,” fulfills his promise to the UDS during its 25th-anniversary celebrations.
The facility boasts an array of amenities, including offices, conference halls, lecture theaters, and houses some faculties of the university. President Akufo-Addo highlighted the importance of universities as “breeding grounds” for ideas, research, and innovations that drive the nation’s progress.
He emphasized that universities should remain actively engaged in the development process, as they play a critical role in shaping the nation’s future. The President reiterated his government’s commitment to educating the population, recognizing it as the bedrock of a thriving democracy, a vibrant economy, and a just society.
To improve access to education, the government has implemented several policies, including the “no guarantor policy” for student loans. This policy has eliminated financial barriers, enabling brilliant students to pursue higher education.
The impact of this policy is evident in the significant increase in the number of students seeking tertiary education, from 443,978 in the 2016-2017 academic year to 711,695 in the 2020-2023 academic year, representing a 60.3% increase.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted his government’s commitment to the education sector, recognizing it as the most powerful tool to transform the nation. He noted that considerable budgetary allocations, totaling some GH₵12.8 billion, demonstrate the government’s determination to prioritize education.
The President emphasized that education is a catalyst for national transformation, and his government is dedicated to ensuring that it becomes a driving force for progress. He encouraged universities to continue playing a vital role in this transformation.
By strengthening ties with government, industries, and communities, universities can ensure that research is aligned with societal needs, contributing to the realization of national development goals. This collaboration is crucial for Ghana’s progress and development.
President Akufo-Addo’s call to universities to strengthen ties with government, industries, and communities underscores the importance of collaboration in driving national development. By working together, Ghana can harness the power of education to transform the nation and build a brighter future.
