Prof. Mitchual Bolsters Ties with Ajumako Chief for Enhanced Relations
The Management of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, in a display of goodwill and commitment to community engagement, has paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of the Ajumako Traditional Council, Okukudurfo Ogyeabour Kwamena Hammah Ababio II, and his sub-chiefs.
The courtesy call aimed to officially introduce Prof. Mitchual as the new Vice-Chancellor of UEW and foster stronger ties with the Ajumako community.
The Principal of the College for Distance and e-Learning (CODeL), UEW, Prof. Frimpong Kaakyire Duku, in introducing Prof. Mitchual, explained that the statutes of UEW required the Governing Council to constitute a search committee to appoint a Vice-Chancellor for the university after Prof. Mawutor Avoke had exhausted his four-year term.
“Professor Mitchual officially assumed the role of Vice-Chancellor at the university on October 1, 2023. As is customary, the new Vice-Chancellor is eager to introduce himself to the university's esteemed local community, fostering open dialogue and collaboration. This introduction necessitates a formal visit to your esteemed establishment, where we aim to acquaint you with Professor Stephen Jobson Mitchual, our new Vice-Chancellor. This visit signifies our unwavering commitment to fostering a strong and productive partnership with your outfit," he remarked.
Okukudurfo Kwamena Ababio II graciously received the delegation from UEW to his palace. He conveyed his deep appreciation for the honour extended to his traditional council in formally introducing the new Vice-Chancellor to them. Recollecting the arduous efforts of his leadership in securing the retention of the UEW Campus within his jurisdiction, he appealed to the university administration to ensure the campus' continued prosperity. He implored them to nurture the virtues of kindness, goodwill, compassion, love, and unity among both the faculty and the student body, thereby ensuring a harmonious and thriving educational environment.
The Ajumako Paramount Chief stressed the pressing issue of student accommodation, highlighting the challenges faced by many students. He earnestly urged the delegation to make concerted efforts to either build more hostels or collaborate with a real estate developer to address this crucial need. By improving student accommodations, the university not only enhances the comfort of its students but also elevates its reputation.
Additionally, he cautioned the university administration to consistently uphold principles of justice for the greater good of the institution. He emphasised that regardless of any affiliations with the traditional leaders of Ajumako, the administration should not tolerate underperforming staff members.
"We humbly request the management to allocate seats in the university board meetings for the Ajumako Traditional Council. In the coming days, we will promptly submit the names of our designated representatives to the university's governing council. Furthermore, I firmly believe that the UEW campus in Ajumako has reached a level of maturity that warrants autonomy. I implore you to consider incorporating this proposal into your action plan and actively pursue the granting of autonomy to the Ajumako campus," he beseeched the Vice-Chancellor.
Prof. Mitchual conveyed his delight regarding the warm reception extended to the UEW delegation at the Ajumako palace. He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Paramount Chief for generously allocating a parcel of land to the university for the establishment of a campus. He underscored his deep commitment to fostering collaboration and mutual understanding.
“This engagement is a crucial step in our effort to build a harmonious relationship with our surrounding communities. It highlighted the university's dedication to its core values of inclusivity and community engagement. I gleaned from your remarks the profound significance you attach to education, evidenced by your keen interest in campus developments and your dedication to advancing the university's mission.
"I am genuinely impressed that you have taken note of our ongoing efforts to develop campus infrastructure to address the concerns of our students. When I enquired from the Principal of the College about the progress, he reported a staggering 98% completion rate, indicating that these initiatives are virtually completed. I assure you that we will carefully deliberate on your requests during our regular meetings and work diligently to devise optimal solutions," he assured.
