Accra: The government is moving forward with plans to introduce a new bill in Parliament aimed at renaming the C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS), along with other public universities nationwide. This announcement was made by Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, during the inauguration of the Governing Councils of CKT-UTAS and Tamale Technical University, which was previously renamed Dr Abdoulaye Salifu Technical University.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Iddrisu highlighted a policy shift under the current administration concerning the naming of public universities. He clarified that while changes are anticipated, the objective is not to erase history or diminish the contributions of individuals previously honored. He assured that individuals who merit national honors would continue to retain them.
Mr Iddrisu emphasized that consultations are underway with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including traditional authorities, academia, alumni associations, students, and civil society organizations. These consultations aim to ensure that the final decisions align with national values and the sentiments of those directly associated with the affected institutions.
Prof Stephen Kendie, Chairman of the Governing Council at CKT-UTAS, expressed gratitude to the President for the trust placed in them and committed to fulfilling their responsibilities. He noted the establishment of Ghana’s first Peace and Development Studies program in 2008 and his ongoing work in peace and conflict resolution. Prof Kendie also addressed the challenge of numerous lawsuits facing the University and the Council’s intention to resolve these issues to foster a peaceful working environment.
The Governing Council includes other notable members such as Prof Albert Luguterah, Vice Chancellor of the University; Dr Gregory Abe-I-Kpeng from the University Teachers Association of Ghana; Mr Fatai Usman from the University Senior Staff Association of Ghana; and Mr Richard A. A.Akumbas from the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools. Additional members include Mr Barnabas Kofi Waja, representing the Students Representative Council and Graduate Students Association, and Mr Huaru Alhassan Marifa from the Alumni Association. Prof Godwin Awabil, Prof Agnes Apusiga, and Mr Amos Alemiya Ayuure were nominated by President Mahama.