UEW Showcases Transformative Progress in Infrastructure and Innovation at 29th Congregation
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) is making notable progress in infrastructure development, a statement reinforced by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, during his address at the university's First Session of the 29th Congregation, held from 17th to 21st December, 2024, at the Jophus Anamuah-Mensah Conference Centre (JAMCC).
Focusing on advancements that align with the university's strategic goals, Prof. Mitchual underscored the university's commitment to ICT infrastructure development, highlighting the construction of a state-of-the-art data centre to improve data security, reliability, and scalability. "Key modules for an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, including Admissions and Student Information Management, are set for piloting next semester," he announced.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the university's efforts to enhance campus security and safety. "The university is taking significant steps to enhance campus security and safety through the ongoing installation of CCTV cameras at key facilities, creating a safer environment for staff, students, and visitors," he said.
Prof. Mitchual announced that the university's researchers had secured funding for several impactful projects, including the Integrated Land and Water Management of the Greater Amanzule Wetland System (ILWGAWS) and the Improving Teachers and Students Professional Development with Twin Transition in Sub-Saharan Africa.
"We commend the visionary efforts and dedication of the exceptional individuals spearheading these transformative projects," Prof. Mitchual said, acknowledging the contributions of Dr. Adams Osman, Mr. Kow Ansah-Mensah, Dr. Richard Agjei, Dr. Bright Ankudzie, Prof. Charles K. Assuah, Prof. Ruby Hanson, and Mrs. Christina Kilson.
Prof. Mitchual also emphasised the university's commitment to prudent financial management, alumni engagement, and entrepreneurship. He noted that the university had a Business Incubation Hub to foster student innovation and entrepreneurship.
"The Hub received a £4,000 grant from the British Council's Enterprise Support and Incubation Curriculum Development programme, which will fund student training and mentorship," Prof. Mitchual stated.
The 5th Vice-Chancellor of UEW acknowledged the challenges facing the university, including enrolment decline, and emphasised the need for the institution to diversify its academic offerings and reposition itself in the tertiary education space. "The university must diversify its academic offerings, working with authorities in government and the tertiary education space for the amendment of the university's Founding Act," he said.
Prof. Mitchual urged the graduands to be ambassadors of excellence and transformational change. "Today is a celebration of your resilience, passion, and commitment to pursuing excellence. As you step into the world beyond these walls, remember that you are not just graduates; you are ambassadors of the University of Education, Winneba," he remarked.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of lifelong learning, quoting Alvin Toffler: "The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn."
A total of 9,575 students graduated at the First Session of the 29th Congregation, with 250 students awarded diplomas, 8,371 students awarded bachelor’s degrees, and 954 students awarded postgraduate degrees.
The congregation, a significant event in UEW’s calendar, gathered numerous stakeholders, including faculty, students, and dignitaries, celebrating both academic achievements and the university's strides in infrastructure development. The achievements outlined by Prof. Mitchual underscore UEW's ongoing dedication to improving both the educational experience and the broader university environment.
