Sir Sam Jonah, a renowned Ghanaian business leader, has delivered a stern warning to universities that continue to rely on government funding, declaring that institutions waiting for state subvention are "planning" their own collapse. He made this statement during a keynote address at the installation of the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Professor Denis Aheto, on Saturday, August 1.
The End of Public Funding for Universities
Sir Sam emphasized that the era of relying on public funds to sustain higher education is over. He stated that "the public purse that built this University can no longer sustain it, and no government — of any party — will change that arithmetic soon." This warning comes at a time when the Ghanaian government's funding for universities has been inconsistent, leaving many institutions struggling to make ends meet.
A New Model for Universities
Sir Sam proposed a new model for universities, one that creates value, generates revenue, and produces graduates with practical skills. He argued that universities should no longer see themselves as beggars seeking state support but as centres capable of funding their own future. He pointed to Professor Aheto's own record as proof that this model was achievable, citing his mobilization of over thirty million United States dollars into the University of Cape Coast.
Reimagining the University's Purpose
Sir Sam also urged universities to rethink their purpose in an age where artificial intelligence can provide instant answers. He argued that universities should focus on producing graduates who can solve real-world problems. He proposed that the University of Cape Coast establish Africa's first degree-awarding faculty dedicated to vocational education, combining academic rigour with hands-on competence. He also called for AI-driven student innovation clubs, stronger industry partnerships, diaspora mentorship, and project-based learning.
A Call to Action
Sir Sam charged Professor Aheto to lead bold reforms, saying, "I did not come to Cape Coast to install a caretaker. Caretakers polish inherited furniture. I came to install a founder." He urged the university to seize the moment created by artificial intelligence rather than fear it. He concluded by saying, "The old model of the university is passing. A new one is waiting to be built. Someone will build it. Let it be built here, by us."
The Road Ahead
The University of Cape Coast now faces a critical decision: to adopt a new model of self-sufficiency or continue to rely on government funding. With Sir Sam's warning still ringing in the ears of university administrators, the clock is ticking. The question is, will the University of Cape Coast take the lead in reimagining the role of universities in Africa, or will it continue to follow the old model? Only time will tell.
Source: Joy Online
