Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has challenged other tertiary institutions to emulate Takoradi Technical University’s pacesetting role in training persons with hearing impairment and other disabilities. Speaking

at the 25th Congregation Ceremony of Takoradi Technical University, where 2,411 graduated for the second cohort of graduates for the 2023/2024 academic year, including three persons with hearing impairment, Dr. Apaak noted that TTU’s commitment over the years towards training persons with various disabilities is worthy of commendation hence must be emulated to ensure total inclusive education.

He reemphasized that it is such conscious inclusive education at the tertiary level exhibited by TTU is what Ghana needs to ensure that no one is left behind, irrespective of one’s disabilities.

Dr. Apaak while acknowledging the pioneering role of Takoradi Technical University in the transformation of technical education in Ghana, underscored the critical role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in shaping Ghana’s future workforce.

Touching on what government is doing to reset the education sector into robust system, the Deputy Education Minister said that the government has been focused on bridging the gap between TVET education and industry needs, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant skills.

“the government has intensified efforts to align the TVET curriculum with industry needs, ensuring that graduates are not only employable but are also equipped with the technical expertise to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. Investment in modern infrastructure, well-equipped training centres, and cutting-edge digital tools have been prioritized to enhance practical learning,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor of TTU, Rev.  Prof. John Frank Eshun in his report to the 25th Congregation said out of the 2,411 Students graduating for the second cohort, sixty were awarded Master of Technology degrees and 2,351 received Bachelor of Technology degrees.

Rev. Eshun intimated the University’s effort in ensuring inclusive education noting that among the graduating class were 3 hearing-impaired persons which is a progression in the total number of deaf Students who have graduated from the University since the Disability Support and Service Unit was established in 2017.

“I am extremely proud to share that this brings the total number of deaf students who have graduated from the University to 192 since the Disability Support and Services Unit was established in 2017,” he added.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the Uiversity’s partnerships with international institutions, such as the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), which is collaborating with TTU to introduce STEIN, a Japanese soil hardener technology in Ghana.

“Such collaboration support staff and student exchange programmes, industrial attachment placements, as well as research and training initiatives,” he added

Prof. Eshun congratulated all graduates, urging them to carry forward the values of TTU in their future endeavours.

“The technical education you have received at Takoradi Technical University has not only sharpened your skills but also empowered you to innovate, create opportunities, and even generate employment for others. As you step forward, carry with you the values of our institution. Be exemplary ambassadors, living out the essence of our cherished motto: Adwen, Akoma na Nsa ma Mpuntu—’Mind, Heart, and Hands for Development.’, he acknowledged.

Acting Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, GTEC, Prof. Augustine Ocloo, who chaired the 25th congregation ceremony said the Commission stand committed to fulfilling its core mandate to regulate tertiary education while promoting transparent governance and best practices.

He therefore urged Takoradi Technical University and other tertiaries to stay focused on their core strengths in the face of growing competition over courses.

“In the ever-changing world of higher education, there is an increasing temptation for institutions to spread themselves too thin, chasing after every opportunity or trying to compete in every domain. For a Technical University like Takoradi Technical University, which prides itself in skills training and TVET, I would urge you to focus on your core mandate and niche area,” he cautioned.

Prof. Ocloo commended the graduating batch for their sacrifices and resilience. He however advised them to commit to excellence as they progress into the professional world while emphasizing on the importance of collaboration.

“I want to emphasize the importance of collaboration because the challenges we face today require innovative solutions, and it is through partnerships that we can achieve meaningful progress. I encourage you to seek out opportunities to connect with industry, to share your ideas, and to bring your unique perspectives to the table. The future belongs to those who are willing to collaborate, to learn, and to grow together. The relationships you build today can become powerful networks that support your career and personal growth,” he said.

In all, 273 Bachelor of Technology students graduated with first class, 1,812 had Second Class Upper, 264 Second Class Lower and two passes.

Samuel Kweku Damoah, a B.Tech Mechanical Engineering student was adjudged the Overall Best Graduating student with a CGPA of 4.93, Gloria Ankomah, a B.Tech Hospitality Management student also came tops as the Best Graduating Female B.Tech Student. Deserving graduating students were given citation and cash prizes among others for their performance.