Accra: A total of 469 graduates from Akatsi College of Education (Akatsico) have been awarded Bachelor of Education Degrees during the institution's 16th congregation ceremony. The graduating cohort included 125 from the Upper Primary Education category and 344 from the JHS Education category.
According to Ghana News Agency, the academic achievements of the graduates were highlighted as unprecedented by the college authorities. Dr. Felix Kumedzro, Principal of the College, reported that 104 students earned first-class honours, a significant increase from the previous year's count of 49. Additionally, 269 students achieved second class upper, 84 graduated with second class lower, and 12 obtained third class honours. Remarkably, no student graduated with a pass, marking a notable milestone for the college.
Dr. Kumedzro attributed this success to the collective support from stakeholders, including parents, guardians, college staff, head teachers of partner basic schools, and mentors. He also acknowledged the contributions from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the Ministry of Education, and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which have improved the college's ICT facilities, upgraded the library, and enhanced lecture hall furniture.
Despite these achievements, Dr. Kumedzro addressed ongoing challenges faced by the college, such as inadequate water supply, understaffing, and infrastructure deficits, including insufficient lecture halls and hostel facilities.
Dr. Samuel Addae-Boateng, Principal of Atebubu College of Education and guest speaker at the event, emphasized the importance of examining the state of teacher education in Ghana. He highlighted challenges such as funding constraints, infrastructural gaps, and staffing shortages, particularly of PhD-qualified lecturers. Dr. Addae-Boateng stressed the need for bold reforms and a renewed commitment to placing teacher education at the forefront of national development.
Dr. Cynthia Sena Kpeglo-Freiku, College Council Chairperson, reminded graduates of the significance of their certificates as symbols of trust. She urged them to teach with competence, live with integrity, and uphold societal values. She also reaffirmed the Governing Council's commitment to strengthening the college through effective governance and strategic partnerships.
The congregation was attended by dignitaries from academia, business partners, traditional rulers, and local government officials, including Mr. Daniel Dagba, Akatsi South Municipal Chief Executive. Miss Doe Princella was honoured as the overall best graduating student, receiving cash prizes and awards.