Presbyterian University Chancellor urges government support for private universities as over 800 graduate at 19th congregation

The Reverend Dr Nana Opare Kwakye, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) and Chancellor of the Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG), has called on the government to provide stronger support for private universities to enhance their contribution to national development.

Addressing the 19th Congregation of the University at Abetifi, where over 800 students graduated from various faculties and disciplines, Rev Dr Opare Kwakye emphasised that private universities complement public sector efforts in human capital development.

He urged that support in the form of grants, tax relief, infrastructure assistance, and inclusion in national education mechanisms would significantly strengthen their impact.

The Chancellor also announced that five new programmes had received accreditation: M.Sc. Cyber Security, MBA Human Resource and Development, M.Sc. Organisational Leadership and Management, M.Sc. Strategic Management and Corporate Strategy, and M.Sc. Project Planning and Management.

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He noted that these programmes would enrich the academic portfolio while equipping students with skills relevant to the job market. In addition, two new lecture halls and a Skills Laboratory for the Midwifery programme will soon be commissioned.

Highlighting academic achievements, Rev Dr Opare Kwakye praised the University’s Faculty of Law, noting that approximately 50 alumni had been called to the Ghana Bar over the past three years, reflecting high academic standards.

He urged the graduands to uphold the core values of the University, excellence, integrity, discipline, commitment, and faith in God, reminding them that education extends beyond earning degrees to making meaningful contributions to society.

The Presbyterian Church of Ghana, since the arrival of the Basel Missionaries in 1828, has been a key driver of formal education, managing over 2,000 schools nationwide, from basic to tertiary institutions.

At the congregation, 119 students earned First Class honours, 424 graduated with Second Class Upper, 260 with Second Class Lower, and 11 with Third Class across programmes including Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Education, BSc International Development, and BSc Computer Engineering.

Professor John Ofosu-Anim, Vice Chancellor of PUG, urged graduands to address national challenges in healthcare, governance, technology, and other sectors with integrity and commitment, calling on them to be architects of national conscience guided by the University’s core values.