Jasikan: Residents of Jasikan in the Oti Region have welcomed the announcement by President John Dramani Mahama to establish a public university in the area, describing it as a transformative development for Buem and the entire region. The announcement was made during the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered in Parliament in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Jacintho Andrews Kwaku, Presiding Member of the Jasikan Municipal Assembly, highlighted the significance of the announcement in a press statement. He referred to the declaration as a historic milestone for the people of Buem and the entire Oti Region. Mr. Kwaku expressed profound appreciation on behalf of chiefs, assembly members, and residents of the area.
He noted that the completion of feasibility studies for the project demonstrated the Government's commitment to translating policy proposals into tangible development outcomes. He stated that this signals seriousness of purpose, clear policy direction, and readiness for implementation, which the Presidency was applauded for.
According to him, the proposed university would not only expand access to tertiary education but also stimulate local economic growth through job creation, improved infrastructure, and increased commercial activities. He explained that the institution would serve as a catalyst for youth empowerment and skills development, particularly for students in the northern parts of the former Volta Region who often travel long distances to access higher education.
Mr. Kwaku emphasized that the university represents more than infrastructure, calling it a gateway to opportunity, youth empowerment, regional economic stimulation, and intellectual transformation. However, he appealed to the Government to ensure a swift transition from feasibility studies to groundbreaking and construction to sustain public confidence and momentum.
He assured authorities of the readiness of the traditional council, assembly, and residents to collaborate fully to ensure the successful implementation of the project. The people of Buem are united, supportive, and prepared to offer the necessary cooperation to make this national vision a reality, seeing it as not just a promise fulfilled but a future unlocked.
Some residents who spoke to the Ghana News Agency said the establishment of the university would boost accommodation, transportation, and small-scale businesses in Jasikan and surrounding communities. President Mahama, during the 2026 SONA, stated that to expand access to higher education, support balanced regional growth, and meet the rising demand for quality tertiary education, an international partnership has been entered to establish two public universities, one in Kintampo, Bono East Region, and another in Jasikan, Oti Region.