The Governing Council of Sunyani Technical University (STU) recently underwent a comprehensive one-day orientation program designed to equip members with the requisite knowledge and skills to effectively steer the university’s strategic direction. The session focused on clarifying their core responsibilities and fostering a shared understanding of the institution’s governance framework. The overarching aim was to empower the council members to contribute meaningfully to the university’s continued growth and development. Prof. Samuel Awuah-Nyamekye, Chairman of the Council, and Ing. Prof. Kwadwo Adinkrah-Appiah, the Vice-Chancellor, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of active engagement and the practical application of the training insights.
Leading the orientation was Mr. Paul Effah, a seasoned education administrator and former Executive Secretary of the National Council for Tertiary Education. Currently serving as President of Radford University College, East Legon, Accra, Mr. Effah brought a wealth of experience to the session, leveraging his deep understanding of tertiary education governance, honed over years of service, including his pivotal role as the founding Registrar of the University for Development Studies in Tamale. His insights provided a valuable framework for the newly constituted council to navigate the complexities of university governance.
Mr. Effah’s presentation underscored the critical importance of leveraging the diverse skills and experiences represented within the council. He emphasized the transformative potential of education, highlighting the council’s responsibility to create an environment where individuals can develop into valuable human resources. This, he argued, is achieved through strategic decision-making, effective policy implementation, and a commitment to creating opportunities for student and faculty growth. He advocated for a collaborative approach, encouraging council members to pool their collective expertise to guide the university towards achieving its strategic objectives.
A key element of Mr. Effah’s presentation focused on the need for establishing clear and concise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). He stressed that well-defined SOPs are essential for streamlining administrative processes, ensuring transparency, and promoting accountability within the institution. By implementing standardized procedures, the university can enhance efficiency, reduce ambiguity, and create a more predictable and stable operational environment, ultimately contributing to improved organizational effectiveness. This emphasis on structured operations reflects a broader commitment to good governance principles.
Beyond operational efficiency, Mr. Effah also highlighted the crucial role of unity and collaboration within the council. He stressed that a cohesive and collaborative council is essential for providing effective oversight and guidance to the university’s leadership. By working together in a spirit of mutual respect and shared purpose, council members can create a supportive environment that fosters innovation, encourages open communication, and promotes institutional growth. He emphasized that a unified council can effectively address challenges, make informed decisions, and champion the university’s mission and vision.
Furthermore, Mr. Effah’s address emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and integrity. He reminded council members that their actions and words carry significant weight and should reflect a deep commitment to the university’s development. He stressed the importance of acting with integrity and accountability in all matters related to the university’s governance. This emphasis on ethical conduct reinforces the importance of maintaining public trust and upholding the highest standards of professionalism in the discharge of their duties. He also underscored the need for a shared vision among council members, aligning their individual efforts with the collective goals of the institution. This shared understanding of the university’s aspirations is crucial for driving progress and ensuring that all decisions contribute to the overall strategic direction.
In summary, the orientation session provided a valuable platform for the newly constituted Governing Council of STU to gain a comprehensive understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Mr. Effah’s expert guidance emphasized the importance of leveraging diverse expertise, establishing clear SOPs, fostering unity and collaboration, and upholding the highest ethical standards. The session aimed to equip council members with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively contribute to the university’s continued growth and success, ultimately ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for STU. The emphasis on good governance, strategic planning, and ethical conduct underscores the council’s commitment to creating a supportive and enriching environment for students, faculty, and staff alike. By working together in a spirit of shared purpose, the Governing Council is poised to guide STU towards achieving its full potential as a leading institution of higher learning.
