UEW Staff Urged to Embrace Time Management for Institutional Excellence
The 2024 Mentees (Senior Members) in the Registry of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) have been advised to cultivate discipline, enhance their time management capabilities and master the principles of administrative writing. These competencies are essential for fostering personal development and the overall institutional performance.
This call was made during a Capacity Building Workshop for 2024 Mentees held on 2nd July 2025 at the Registrar’s Conference Room. The workshop was organised by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) of the University. The seminar aimed to equip mentees with practical tools to enhance productivity, strategic thinking and written communication in line with the University’s broader developmental agenda.
Addressing the participants, Ms. Patricia Kaitoo, Director of GMD, underscored the importance of intentional participation in capacity-building exercises. She emphasised that such engagements equip staff to confidently execute their responsibilities and ultimately produce the “vital ingredients” necessary for the growth of UEW. “It is imperative that all of us not only attend but also actively participate,” she urged, reminding staff that collective commitment enhances practice and enriches the university’s work.
Ms. Patricia Kaitoo clarified the nuances of administrative writing, particularly regarding memos prepared for promotions. She emphasised that well-crafted memos should identify institutional challenges, offer researched recommendations and comply with formal standards.
“Your memo should focus on improving processes and solving problems, rather than merely filling pages. We can manage our time more effectively, write with clarity and contribute meaningfully to the University’s mission,” she advised.
Mr. Prince Asiedu, Acting Planning Officer of UEW, shared practical strategies for time management, drawing on both literature and his personal journey from Assistant Registrar to Deputy Registrar. Citing a quote by American writer Jonathan Estrin, “The way we spend our time defines who we are,” he challenged colleagues to evaluate their daily routines. He highlighted the benefits of disciplined scheduling, including reduced stress, improved productivity and better work-life balance.
Mr. Asiedu recounted relatable anecdotes about time “stealers”—ranging from social media distractions to endless unplanned obligations—and illustrated how setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) can transform professional output. He demonstrated tools such as Google Calendar to create daily schedules and track commitments effectively. “When you make your plans, commit to them. It is not enough to have an impressive schedule on paper,” he advised.
Mr. Asiedu urged staff to adopt what he called a “healthy desperation” in pursuing professional development. He emphasised that dedication to producing research memos and quality work is key to career progression. “You may be hardworking but that alone does not secure your promotion. You must also invest time in producing relevant, action-oriented papers,” he cautioned.
Both speakers encouraged staff to take responsibility for their development, delegate tasks where needed and keep organised workspaces to lessen stress and inefficiency. They also urged staff to find joy in their roles despite constraints, as passion drives resilience and creativity.
The session concluded with an invitation to further engagements, including planned presentations by the Division of Human Resources to address emerging questions.
