Accra: Professor Samuel Kwasi Dartey-Baah, the Vice Chancellor of the Central University (CUC), has called on the government of Ghana to extend policy and financial support to private universities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Prof. Dartey-Baah emphasized that private universities are equal partners in nation-building and not competitors in the country's educational development. Speaking at his investiture ceremony held at the university's Miotso campus, he appealed for the inclusion of private tertiary institutions in national education planning, research funding, and infrastructure development initiatives.
He highlighted that private universities significantly contribute to tertiary enrolment and national manpower development, and therefore, should be treated with fairness and parity in government policies. 'We are not asking for favours; we are asking for fairness,' he stated, underscoring the private education sector's role in complementing government efforts to train skilled and responsible graduates for Ghana's socio-economic advancement.
The newly inducted vice chancellor outlined his strategic vision for transforming Central University into a modern, research-driven, and globally competitive institution. His agenda is anchored on five thematic pillars: promoting excellence in teaching, learning, and research; fostering a student-centered environment; ensuring financial sustainability; enhancing brand compliance; and cultivating a high-performance work environment.
Prof. Dartey-Baah stated that these pillars would reposition the university as a leading Christian tertiary institution anchored on innovation, integrity, and impact. He emphasized that education must become a launchpad for productivity, creativity, and purpose, rather than just a paper chase.
The CUC vice chancellor also condemned the destructive activities of illegal mining (galamsey), describing it as a 'national shame' that undermines the country's water bodies, forest reserves, and long-term development. He urged universities, research institutions, and policymakers to collaborate in finding sustainable, science-based solutions to this issue.
'As a university, we cannot stand aloof. Our research and innovation units will contribute to developing credible data and strategies that support the government's efforts in protecting the environment and ensuring responsible stewardship of our natural resources,' he said. He reaffirmed his commitment to leading the university under the theme, 'Building on Legacy, Leading with Vision,' promising to center administration on faith, academic excellence, and national relevance.