UEW VC Unveils Vision in Exclusive Orientation for Academic and Administrative Heads
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, set the tone for the take-off of his administration articulating a compelling vision and leadership framework for strategic management at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW).
Prof. Mitchual emphasised his determination to elevate UEW to international repute by 2027, positioning it as a hub for teacher education and research based on his vision to consolidate the achievements made since the inception of UEW to drive a truly internationally reputable institution for teacher education and research, renowned for generating and disseminating knowledge in education, training competent teachers, and actively addressing societal needs.
"This vision is anchored on the core values of academic excellence, community service, good corporate governance, judicious utilisation and management of funds, gender equity and social inclusiveness, teamwork and partnerships development, positive work attitude, and environmental responsibility," he asserted.
The Vice-Chancellor was speaking at a day-long intensive orientation for Deans, Directors, Deputy Registrars, and Heads of Department (HoDs) on Friday, November 10, 2023. The event, held at the Manna Heights Hotel in Mankessim, Central Region, Ghana, was on the theme "Addressing Contemporary Challenges Facing Higher Education Service Delivery: The Role of Deans, Directors, Deputy Registrars, and HoDs," in a bid to fortify the university’s position as a leading institution for teacher education and research.
Prof. Mitchual revealed a comprehensive strategy, committing to the implementation of rigorous academic standards across teaching, learning, research, and innovation. Additionally, he pledged to deliver strong and effective leadership, cultivate both internal and external stakeholder partnerships to foster development, improve access, equity, and inclusion, maintain financial sustainability and accountability, and prioritising the development of physical infrastructure. These initiatives collectively form the backbone of his vision to propel the university to new heights.
He urged participants to provide strong and effective leadership, conduct SWOT analyses in their respective sections, lead fundraising activities, spearhead digital transformation, as well as develop and implement appropriate budgets. Emphasizing collaboration with management, he highlighted the collective effort required to make UEW a globally recognised teacher education university.
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Antwi, delved into the importance of mentoring and supporting faculty, key aspects of managing a department, and strategies for effective departmental management. Prof. Antwi advocated for the establishment of a formal mentorship programme within departments, fostering a sense of community and providing structured guidance for faculty.
Mrs. Wilhelmina Tete-Mensah, the Ag. Registrar, underscored the importance of policy implementation in her presentation. Stressing the need for academic and administrative heads to be well-versed in university policies, she highlighted the role of policies in ensuring consistency, fairness, and preventing legal complications.
Dr. Theophilus Senyo Ackorlie, the Finance Officer, focused on making internal controls more effective and efficient. He emphasised the shared responsibility of Deans, Directors, Deputies, and HoDs in implementing internal controls to enhance the quality and performance of the university while reducing risks and costs associated with errors, fraud, and non-compliance.
Dr. Augustine Monney, the Ag. Director of IT Services, and Mr. Raymond Bentum Boison, the Head of Student Records Office (SRO), shed light on IT support for teaching, research, and information security. They emphasised leveraging existing technology and skills to support teaching and research.
The Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. (Mrs.) Edinam Kakra Avoke, rounded off the day with a presentation on "Working with Students and Helping Students in Distress." She expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of management and staff in managing student affairs and advocated for a support model involving Deans, HoDs, and lecturers in the lives of the students.
The UEW administration's commitment to equipping its academic and administrative heads with the necessary skills reflects a proactive approach to addressing contemporary challenges in higher education service delivery, setting the stage for a transformative future.
