Accra: Professor Hamidatu Saaka Darimani, the Vice-Chancellor of the Dr Hilla Limann Technical University (DHLTU), has urged graduates of the University to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to positively impact their communities. She emphasized that technical education aims to produce job creators rather than job seekers, encouraging graduates to utilize their entrepreneurial skills to initiate businesses.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Darimani highlighted the importance of self-reliance and entrepreneurship during the 7th congregation of the University, marking her first congregation as Vice-Chancellor. A total of 723 graduates, including 153 Bachelor of Technology (BTech) and 570 Higher National Diploma (HND) students, received certificates. The graduates were from various faculties, including Engineering, Applied Science and Technology, Applied Arts, Design and General Studies, and the Business School.
Addressing the congregation, Professor Darimani reiterated the University's commitment to providing high-quality, industry-relevant training to support national development and positively impact the Ghanaian economy. She mentioned that the University had signed Memoranda of Understanding with foreign universities and industries in the Upper West Region to enhance competency-based training by integrating theoretical and practical skills.
Despite challenges like infrastructure deficits and limited funding due to a lack of seed capital, the University remains determined to deliver quality education. Professor Julius Najah Fobil, Chairperson of the DHLTU Governing Council, encouraged the graduates to use their knowledge and skills to drive development in their communities.
Professor Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), warned against the proliferation of tertiary institutions in the country, which could compromise the quality and relevance of education if not managed properly. Ghana currently has about 300 accredited tertiary institutions, including traditional universities, public technical universities, chartered private universities, public colleges of education, and public health training colleges.
Professor Abdulai acknowledged that the rapid growth of tertiary institutions has improved access to higher education but also poses risks of reducing quality and creating a skills mismatch in the labor market. He advocated for stronger industry-academia collaboration and increased investment in applied and community-relevant research, particularly in renewable energy, water management, agri-processing, and sustainable rural development. He assured the University Management of GTEC's continued support in fulfilling its mandate within a quality-driven education ecosystem.
Mr. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, assured the University community of the government's commitment to addressing the institution's challenges. He mentioned the commencement of a 400-bed hostel facility as evidence of efforts to improve infrastructure at the University.