The Ministry of Education has disclosed that the government is committed to improving the overall student experience in technical universities.
Reading a statement on behalf of the sector minister Haruna Iddrisu at the grand durbar of the 25th anniversary celebration of Bolgatanga Technical University, Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak outlined some initiatives he said the government will roll out in achieving this.
He noted that students should, among other things, have access to affordable accommodation, reliable transportation, quality healthcare, and other things.
Dr. Apaak, who is also the Builsa South constituency representative, stated that to achieve this, the government will initiate several policies aimed at improving teaching and learning input at technical universities.
“Recognising the importance of student welfare, this government is also committed to improving the overall student experience in technical universities. We understand that for students to excel, they must have access to affordable accommodation, reliable transportation, quality healthcare services, and financial aid programs. To this end, we plan to implement:
- No-Academic-Fee Policy (No-Fees-Stress Initiative): An amount of GH¢499.8 million has been allocated to cover the no academic fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions.
- Enhanced Student Loan Scheme: We will increase accessibility and efficiency of student loan disbursement to ensure that no student drops-out due to financial constraints.
- Improved Campus Infrastructure: We will expand hostels, recreational facilities, and digital libraries to create a conducive learning environment.
- Enhanced Internship and Job Placement Programs: We will establish stronger linkages with industry leaders to facilitate seamless transition from school to employment.
- Mental Health and Counseling Services: Strengthening student support systems to provide guidance, career counseling, and mental health services to students in need will be prioritised.
The celebration was under the theme “25 Years of Technical Education: Impact, Challenges, and Prospects”.
He stated that the theme was both timely and relevant because President John Dramani Mahama recognises that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is a critical driver of socio-economic development.
This commitment, he said, is documented in the 2024 manifesto of the NDC. Dr Apaak indicated that countries that have prioritised technical education have experienced significant advancements in their industrial sectors, job creation, and technological innovation, and the government was committed to achieving this.
“This is why the NDC government, under the leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, is committed to revitalising and expanding access to technical and vocational education to ensure that Ghana’s workforce is globally competitive and adequately prepared for the demands of the modern economy.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
