UCC inducts Prof. Aheto as Vice-Chancellor, charges him to lead skills-based reforms

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has appointed Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto as its 12th Vice-Chancellor, with a mandate to lead skills-based reforms and transform the institution into a center for practical and vocational education. Chancellor Sir Sam Eson Jonah emphasized that, in an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI), universities must shift their focus from awarding degrees based solely on theoretical knowledge to producing graduates who possess practical skills and can solve real-world problems.

To achieve this, Jonah proposed the establishment of a full faculty of degree-awarding vocational education, including Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Applied Skills. One example of such a program would be a Bachelor of Applied Skills in Renewable Energy Systems, where students would be required to personally install and maintain a working solar installation before graduating.

Another proposed program focuses on Coastal and Aquaculture Enterprise, aiming to build on Professor Aheto's fisheries legacy by having students establish a functional fish farm as part of the curriculum.

In his inauguration ceremony, Jonah commended Professor Aheto's contributions to the University, highlighting his ability to mobilize over $30 million for the institution, fund over 400 scholarships, train more than 50 PhDs, and grow a national center into an Africa Centre of Excellence. The Vice-Chancellor accepted the challenge and presented a four-year agenda focused on digital innovation, research excellence, infrastructure expansion, and sustainable financing.

He unveiled plans to create a College of Engineering and Built Environment, introduce new academic programs in AI, Cybersecurity, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry, Architecture, and Special Languages, and launch the UCC E-Campus, an online platform to expand access to quality higher education.