CODeL Evaluates Performance, Aims to Improve Student Services
The College for Distance and e-Learning (CODeL) of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), on Friday, 30th January, 2026, held its annual review meeting at the CODeL Quadrangle.
The meeting, which brought together management and staff of the College, reviewed the operational performance of key departments and units including Finance, Audit, Admissions, Examinations and other support services while also providing a platform for reflection, engagement and renewed commitment to service delivery.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Frimpong Kaakyire Duku, the Principal of CODeL, described the meeting as an opportunity to formally reflect on the past year and reposition the College for an intensive academic calendar ahead. He disclosed that CODeL would run three semesters within the 2026 calendar year, the first and second semesters of the 2025/2026 academic year and the first semester of the 2026/2027 academic year, as part of efforts to restore the earlier academic structure where the first semester ends within the calendar year.
According to Prof. Duku, the adjustment demands greater efficiency, punctuality and responsiveness from staff, noting that the College no longer has the flexibility to defer tasks. He stressed the importance of promptly addressing urgent issues to prevent delays that could negatively impact students and the institution's reputation.
Prof. Duku also underscored the need for discipline and accountability. He explained that the introduction of biometric attendance systems was intended to promote fairness and reliability in the workplace and would continue to be enforced. Additionally, he urged staff to respect established communication structures and avoid bypassing immediate supervisors when reporting concerns, stressing transparency and mutual respect as essential for institutional harmony.
Dr. Francis Akronu, the Deputy Registrar of CODeL, reinforced the call for empathy in dealing with students and alumni, particularly those who endure significant hardship to access services at the University. He noted that a warm and respectful reception can significantly reduce frustration.
He reminded staff that students and alumni are key stakeholders in the University’s mission and must not be treated as inconveniences but rather as partners whose contributions sustain the institution.
Touching on operational matters, he clarified that remuneration for monitoring and related activities is determined by rank rather than workload volume, urging staff—particularly interns and national service personnel—to understand University policies to avoid unnecessary grievances. He also cautioned against the misuse of University vehicles, noting that CODeL’s fleet is ageing and requires careful handling, timely fault reporting and adherence to safety protocols to sustain operations.
On expansion, Dr. Akronu revealed that CODeL is approaching forty study centres nationwide, with additional centres under consideration. However, he stressed that expansion would be strategic and guided by efficiency, cost-effectiveness and sustainability rather than mere numerical growth.
The meeting concluded with a call for collective responsibility, renewed energy and commitment as CODeL prepares to manage a demanding academic year while strengthening service delivery to its growing student population.
