The Bono Regional Police Commander, DCOP Yao D Tettegah, recently led a delegation of senior police officers on a courtesy call to the management of Sunyani Technical University (STU). This visit reciprocated a similar one made by the university’s leadership to the regional police command two months prior, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship between the two institutions. The meeting served as a platform to discuss critical security concerns and strategize on enhancing safety measures within the university community. DCOP Tettegah’s delegation included his deputy, the Sunyani Divisional Police Commander, and representatives from various police units, including operations, intelligence, and public relations. This diverse representation underscored the police’s comprehensive approach to addressing the university’s security needs.
The discussions between the police command and the university management focused on several key aspects of campus security. Foremost among these was the need to bolster the overall security presence on campus. This involved exploring various strategies, including increased police patrols, particularly during periods of heightened activity. The two parties also emphasized the importance of strengthening the collaborative efforts between the Ghana Police Service and STU’s internal security unit. This collaborative approach aimed to create a unified and effective security framework, ensuring a swift and coordinated response to any potential threats. Regular communication and joint training exercises between the two security entities were identified as essential components of this collaboration. Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the significance of proactive security awareness campaigns. This included providing regular security tips and educational sessions for students, particularly during orientation periods, to equip them with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond appropriately to potential security risks.
The Vice-Chancellor of STU, Ing. Prof. Kwadwo Adinkrah-Appiah, expressed his satisfaction with the long-standing cordial relationship between the university and the regional police command. He underscored the importance of nurturing and strengthening this partnership to maintain a safe and secure learning environment for all members of the university community. The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the establishment of a police post on the main campus as a tangible outcome of this collaboration and a testament to the shared commitment to safety and security. He further revealed plans to upgrade the existing police post to a fully-fledged police station in the future, signifying a long-term vision for enhanced security infrastructure on campus.
Prof. Adinkrah-Appiah also appealed for more frequent police patrols within the university grounds. Increased police visibility, he argued, would serve as a deterrent to criminal activities and enhance the sense of security among students, faculty, and staff. He also requested additional permanent police personnel to be assigned to the campus police post, recognizing that a stronger police presence would be crucial in effectively responding to any security incidents. This proactive approach, he believed, would contribute significantly to maintaining a secure and conducive learning environment for the entire university community.
Responding to the university’s concerns, DCOP Yao D Tettegah pledged the full cooperation of the regional police command in ensuring the safety and security of everyone on campus. He reiterated the police’s commitment to working closely with the university’s management and security personnel to implement the strategies discussed during the meeting. DCOP Tettegah assured the university that the police would prioritize the safety of the campus community and take all necessary measures to prevent and respond to any security threats effectively.
The meeting was attended by key members of the university’s leadership, including the Pro-Vice Chancellor, the Director of Finance, deans, and heads of various departments, sections, and units. Their presence highlighted the significance of the security discussions and the university’s commitment to creating a collaborative approach to campus safety. This joint effort between the university and the regional police command reflects a shared understanding of the critical role that security plays in fostering a conducive environment for learning and research. The meeting marked a significant step forward in strengthening the partnership between STU and the Ghana Police Service, paving the way for enhanced security measures and a safer campus environment.
