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.
Prof. Dartey-Baah said private universities were 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 inclusion of private tertiary institutions in national education planning, research funding, and infrastructure development initiatives.
He emphasised that private universities contribute significantly to tertiary enrolment and national manpower development; hence, they must be treated with fairness and parity in the government’s policies.
“We are not asking for favours; we are asking for fairness,” he stated, stressing that the private education sector continues to complement the government’s efforts in training skilled and responsible graduates for Ghana’s socio-economic advancement.
The newly inducted vice chancellor outlined his strategic vision to transform Central University into a modern, research-driven and globally competitive institution, adding that 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 said these pillars would reposition the university as a leading Christian tertiary institution anchored on innovation, integrity, and impact, stressing that education must become a launchpad for productivity, creativity, and purpose, not just a paper chase.
The CUC vice chancellor condemned the destructive activities of illegal mining (galamsey), describing it as a ‘national shame’ undermining 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 the menace.
“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 centre administration on faith, academic excellence, and national relevance.
GNA
