Students Interact with Vice-Chancellor on Student-Related Matters At ‘SRC Day With the VC’
As part of activities to mark the 66th anniversary of the Students Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Ghana, students interacted with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, in a session named "SRC Day with the VC."
Themed “Building a Legacy: Legon’s Vision for the next Decade,” issues discussed at the forum were security related matters, health services, residential issues, academic affairs and social life on campus.
Mr. Frank Tsikata, SRC President, remarked in his welcome address that the 66th anniversary celebration, titled "NIRVALAND, a Realm of Peace and Possibility," aimed to commemorate the Student Union's achievements so far. He thanked the Prof. Amfo-led Management for their constant support and for being instrumental in making the campus more inclusive and responsive.
Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo outlined some initiatives implemented by management to enhance the student experience. These include the Classroom Modernisation Project, construction of Hotspot Comfort Zones, One Student One Laptop Initiative (1S1L), and the reconstructed night market, among others.
Regarding the Classroom Modernisation Project, she stated that management has been able to implement modifications at the Legon, Accra City, and Korle-bu campuses. The Jones Quartey Building, N Block, and new N Block have all undergone improvements, with modern equipment such as smart televisions and new air conditioning, as well as improved internet connections and installation of other technology-driven tools.
She stated that currently six Hotspot Comfort Zones are being sponsored by FBN Bank Ghana, UG Alumni, Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alan Bagbin, the SRC and Mendanha & Sousa Ghana Construction Ltd.
The ‘One student, One laptop Initiative’ (1S1L) she added, has seen the distribution of 406 laptops to students to enhance their technological skills.
Regarding student accommodation, Prof. Amfo informed the students that the Diamond Jubilee Hall, which is currently under construction, will accommodate around 900 to 1000 students, with four in a room and two in a room occupancy, making it affordable for students. She also mentioned the GUSSS Students Hostel, currently under construction.
The Vice-Chancellor also spoke about the internship programmes that management has put in place to help students obtain industry experience. She stated that about 9,848 students have benefitted from the programme.
During a panel discussion with Prof. Amfo, she mentioned that there are policies in place for students with special needs, from admissions to accommodation, to ensure their comfort throughout their academic journey. She further disclosed that the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and UG Council have approved the establishment of the “Centre for Disability Studies and Advocacy”.
The SRC presented a citation to the Vice-Chancellor, in recognition of her dedication and influence on the management of the University's operations throughout her tenure.
Other senior officials present were, Pro-VC, Academic Student Affairs, Prof. Gordon Awandare; Registrar, Mrs. Agyei-Mensah; Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Rosina Kyerematen; Vice Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Wiafe Akenteng and executives of the Students Representative Council.
Other activities held to celebrate the anniversary included health screening, a political dialogue, a cooking and eating competition, rep your school and many more.