A three-day retreat has been organised by  the College of Education from 15th-17th October, 2023, to deliberate and develop strategies to restructure the Distance Education (DE) Programme.

A cross section of participants at the retreat

In his opening remarks, Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost of the College of Education, welcomed all the participants to the retreat. He indicated that the purpose for the retreat was to discuss among other things, a report submitted by the committee tasked to restructure the Distance Education programme, chaired by Professor Augustine Ocloo. He reiterated how imperative it was for faculty members to actively engage in research and to also apply for research grants to enhance both local and international recognition of the College’s image.

Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe delivering his welcome address

Updating participants on progress in the establishment of a Center for Educational Research Studies, Professor Codjoeexplained that the committee responsible, has submitted its report and preparations were underway for the launch of the project mid-next year.  He also announced that the College was preparing to establish research surveillance sites to facilitate research and monitor educational performances. He said the College was part of a Mastercard Foundation arrangement by the University, on a climate change project of which an initial funding of $250,000 had been received.  Professor Codjoe also revealed plans for an upcoming report launch on the State of Education in Ghana, with a committee tasked and overseeing the process, set to occur next year.

Professor Olivia Kwapong addressing participants

Professor Olivia Kwapong, Dean of the School of Continuing and Distance Education (SCDE), in a brief remark, stated that the SCDE was committed to embracing inclusivity and making education accessible to all. She highlighted the School’s collaborations, with other international Universities in a bid to improve teaching and learning for both faculty members and students.

Mr. Michael Owusu Ansah delivering his presentation

During the retreat, Mr. Michael Owusu-Ansah, the College Finance Officer, delivered a comprehensive financial status report for the College.   

Also speaking at the retreat was Dr. Simon Peter Kafui Aheto, the Coordinator of International Programmes at the College, shared insights into the newly introduced courses designed for international students. 

Participants also deliberated on the sustainability of the Learning Centres and the courses offered through the Distance Education Programme. There were further discussions on how to increase revenue generated by the Learning.  Capacity building for faculty and staff to meet students’ needs, enhancing internal and external collaborations with other educational institution were among other issues deliberated upon. 

A group picture of participants at the retreat

In his closing remarks, Professor Codjoe expressed his appreciation to the participant for actively participating in the retreat. He urged them to contribute their quota to ensure the success of the Distance Education programme. “This retreat serves as the beginning for the restructuring of the Distance Education programme, the College will implement the action plans compiled as soon as possible,” he added.

Professor Augustine Ocloo making a point during the retreat

Other officials at the retreat included Professor Michael Tagoe, Former Ag. Provost of the College of Education, Mr. Joseph Oduro Nkansah, College Secretary, Professor Augustine Ocloo, Chairman of the Committee to restructure the Distance Education Programme, Professor Gordon SK Adika, Dean, School of Education and Leadership, Professor Edward Nketiah-Amponsah, Ag. Principal, Kumasi City Campus; Professor Bernardin Senadza, Ag. Principal, Takoradi City Campus, Professor Isaac Kofi Biney, Head, University of Ghana Learning Centres,  and Dr. Kwaku Darko Amponsah, Head, Department of Teacher Education.

Coordinators of some Learning Centres clad in the UG@75 cloth during the retreat

Dr. Robert Lawrence Afutu-Kotey (Head, Takoradi Learning Centre), Dr. Moses Asamoah (Head, Ho/Tsito Learning Centre), Dr. Hayford Ayerekwa (Head, Cape Coast Learning Centre), Dr. Moses Namoog (Tamale Learning Centre), Dr. Philip Mantey (Kumasi Learning Centre), Dr. Linda Tsevi (Accra Learning Centre), Dr. Boadi Agyekum (Tema Learning Centre), Dr. Issahaka Fuseini (Sunyani Learning Centre), Dr. Marshall Kala (Wa Learning Centre) and Dr. Samuel Quartey (Koforidua Learning Centre) were also present.

Also in attendance was Mrs. Regina Afari Boateng, School Administrator (SCDE), Mrs. Elizabeth Thompson, Principal Administrative Assistant (SCDE) and Ms. Audrey Djarbeng, Senior Administrative Assistant (Office of the Provost).