Prof. Samuel N. A. Codjoe (2nd from left) in a group photograph with the students
In a recent annual interaction, Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, the Provost of the College of Education, engaged with all PhD students enrolled in different programmes within the College. The hybrid interaction, which accommodated both in-person and virtual attendance, focused on discussing research progress, sharing ideas, addressing challenges, and exploring avenues of support from the College.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Codjoe emphasised the important role of students in advancing knowledge and encouraged them to delve into extensive literature to identify research gaps. Subsequently, the PhD students introduced themselves, outlining their respective departments and their research areas.
During the interaction, three articles were distributed to each student for analysis, followed by an evaluation of their understanding. The exercise aimed to complement their knowledge and emphasised the importance of incorporating a global perspective into their research papers for enhanced readability and identifying research gaps.
Prof. Codjoe urged all PhD students, whether in-person or virtually, to diligently work towards publishing their research by the end of their programme. "This would help you become experts in your respective research fields," he added.
The interaction also provided a platform to address challenges faced by the students, including limited interaction among PhD students in the College as compared to those in other Colleges and the need for a dedicated space where they could sit and learn independently while still being able to interact with colleagues and share ideas.
Addressing the concerns, Prof. Codjoe encouraged the students to select a leader to advocate for programmes beneficial to their cohort. He mentioned that in order to track their efforts in this regard, he would expect feedback from them at their next interaction.
The Provost also disclosed that the College was in the process of establishing the “Legon Center for Educational Research and Policy” which would be dedicated to educational research. Additionally, he informed the students about an upcoming award ceremony by the College, which would include a category for the "Best PhD Student." He further encouraged each student to continue working diligently towards their programme, knowing that their hard work and dedication would pay off.
Expressing gratitude to all present, Prof. Codjoe wished all the PhD students success in their respective programmes, encouraging them to continue excelling and contributing meaningfully to their field of study.