President John Dramani Mahama has assured the University of Ghana (UG) that the management of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) will be transferred to the University. The President made the pledge during the 2nd Session of the July Congregation of UG on Saturday, July 25, at the University's Great Hall.
University of Ghana Medical Centre Transfer on the Cards
The transfer of UGMC from the Ministry of Health to the University of Ghana has been a long-standing issue. President Mahama said a committee established to look into the transfer had submitted its report for consideration. The next step after the submission is the presentation of a transition roadmap for execution.
The President reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that the UGMC fully serves its original purpose as a centre of excellence for teaching, research, specialist training, and world-class health care delivery. He emphasized that his government remains determined to ensure the UGMC serves its purpose.
Graduation Ceremony and Commendations
The 2nd Session of the July Congregation of UG saw the conferment of postgraduate doctoral degrees on 157 candidates from the UG School of Graduate Studies. In all, 1,884 students graduated during the two-day congregation, comprising 157 PhDs, 1,429 masters, and 298 undergraduates. President Mahama commended the graduates for their dedication to knowledge and research.
The President also commended his Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah, who was among the graduating class. He encouraged the graduates to excel wherever opportunities took them, learn from the best, and distinguish themselves.
University of Ghana's Academic Standing
Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice Chancellor of UG, said the University had maintained its position as the leading university in Ghana and West Africa. The University had strengthened its standing among Africa's top universities in the QS World University Rankings 2027. According to Prof. Amfo, the University was ranked among the top 13 universities in Africa, with UG's performance reinforcing its reputation for excellence in research, innovation, teaching, and learning.
Government's Commitment to Education
President Mahama also emphasized his government's commitment to ensuring that no capable Ghanaian was denied access to higher education because of financial constraints. He stressed that the "No-Fee-Stress" initiative being implemented would ensure that as many first-year students as possible begin their university education with dignity, confidence, and hope. The President added that education should never be determined by the size of one's pocket, but by the strength of one's knowledge and potential.
The transfer of UGMC to the University of Ghana is a significant development that will have far-reaching implications for the country's health care system. As the government works towards the transfer, it remains to be seen how the process will unfold and what benefits it will bring to the country.
Source: Joy Online
