The Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) Saturday welcomed 5,128 new students in its 34th Matriculation ceremony, marking the highest student admission in the institution’s history.
The university received 9,284 applications and admitted 7,468 students, with 5,128 completing their enrollment through payment. This represents the highest number of students enrolled since the college became a fully-fledged university through GCTU Act 2020 (Act 1022). Professor Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, the Vice Chancellor, said the students would pursue various academic programmes ranging from diploma to doctoral levels.
Among the matriculants are 4,842 undergraduates -comprising 3,467 males and 1,375 females – 422 postgraduate students (Masters 405, PhD 17), and 35 international students from 12 countries. Prof Afoakwa welcomed the ‘freshers’ to what he described as “Ghana’s Silicon Valley,” emphasising the institution’s role as the hub of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the country. He highlighted GCTU’s unique position as an institution mandated by law to train the next generation of ICT professionals.
“Our education is not just about the acquisition of knowledge but it engenders honesty, respect, equality and compassion,” he stated. The Vice Chancellor emphasised the university’s commitment to academic integrity and excellence, strongly warning against examination malpractices and sexual harassment. He touched on the university’s commitment to practical education, announcing that 80 per cent of students would undergo mandatory industrial attachments.
“This initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry practice, preparing graduates for immediate integration into the workforce,” he said. Prof Afoakwa outlined GCTU’s vision to becoming the premier institution for human resource development in West Africa, particularly focusing on preparing students for the Fifth Industrial Revolution.
To achieve this, the university has established an Industrial Liaison Office to facilitate partnerships between academia and industry. “Our focus extends beyond mere numbers, We are committed to producing graduates who will make meaningful impacts in society through innovation and technological advancement.”he stated. The GCTU had integrated technology into all aspects of teaching and learning, including email systems, course-based websites, and computer-based chat rooms.
“GCTU will empower you to continue the search for knowledge through constant learning and innovation,” Prof Afoakwa assured the new students. He expressed confidence in their potential for success, provided they adhered to the institution’s values and gave the utmost dedication to their studies. The Ghana Communication Technology University a premier institution for ICT education.
It has strategically positioned its academic programs across three faculties: the Faculty of Engineering, the Business School, and the Faculty of Computing and Information Systems. The Faculty of Computing and Information Systems accounts for approximately 60 per cent of the student population, reflecting the university’s focus on technological education.
Source: GNA
