The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has dismissed claims that 38 students were expelled for poor academic performance.
Speaking on Asaase Radio on Monday, March 17, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Ernest Azuntiga, refuted the reports, stating that no student had been officially withdrawn.
According to Azuntiga, the widely circulated document listing Level 100 students with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) below 1.0 was an internal communication from a specific department that was leaked.
He clarified that the document was not an official dismissal notice but rather a reference to provisions in the students’ handbook, aimed at drawing attention to the academic difficulties of the affected students.
“I think that what you have seen in the public domain is actually a leaked document from a department. The head of the department sought to invoke session 421 regulation in the student handbook and draw attention to faculty members of the situation of those students,” he stated.
Azuntiga stressed that the announcement was not definitive, as it was issued by a single department.
He further explained that no department has the sole authority to withdraw students, as such a decision requires a thorough evaluation and approval from all relevant stakeholders before being finalized.
“I must say that communication was not conclusive and a head of department could not on its own dismiss students, as it were. It has to go through processes,” he emphasised.
He refuted the claims that 38 students, who had a CGPA lower than the required 1.0, had been expelled from the university.
“It’s not true that 38 students have been dismissed. What it says is that attention has been drawn to the situation of those 38 students. It goes through a process before a decision is taken,” he added.
On March 11, 2025, news emerged that 38 Level 100 students at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) had been withdrawn from the university due to academic performance issues.
This was confirmed in a letter dated March 7, 2025, signed by Dr. Mohammed Adam, Acting Head of the Department of Social Studies Education (DSSE), which addressed the issue to the department.
“This memo informs you that the attached list of students has been withdrawn from the University, effective immediately,” the letter stated.
“This action is based on the said students’ failure to meet the minimum CGPA requirement of 1.0 and/or failure in more than the permissible number of courses after resists, as stipulated in section 4.2.1 of the Revised Undergraduate Students’ Handbook (2019),” the letter explained.
“This decision was arrived at after an audit and review of both their First and Second Semester Examination results (2023/2024 Academic Year), during which the affected students were duly counseled prior to their withdrawal.
“As a result, these students are ineligible to attend Level 200 lectures or take part in the Mid-Semester and End-of-Semester Examinations for Level 200 courses.”
The reason behind the withdrawal was their failure to meet the minimum required CGPA of 1.0 or their inability to pass more than the allowed number of courses after resits, as per section 4.2.1 of the Revised Undergraduate Students’ Handbook (2019).
The memo further explained that after reviewing the students’ examination results from both the First and Second Semesters of the 2023/2024 academic year, they had been counseled before the decision to withdraw them.
Due to their academic standing, these students would not be allowed to attend Level 200 classes or sit for the corresponding Mid-Semester and End-of-Semester Examinations.
The letter also requested that the department update its course registers to reflect the changes, providing detailed information about each student’s index number, name, and the reason for their withdrawal.
The letter instructed, “Please ensure appropriate measures are taken to reflect these changes in your course register.
“The attached document details each student’s index number, name, and reason for withdrawal. Your prompt attention to this matter is crucial,” the letter noted.
Of the 38 students involved, 32 were found to have CGPAs below the 1.0 threshold, while the remaining six had failed more than three courses during the academic year.
A letter dated March 7, signed by Dr. Mohammed Adam, Acting Head of Department, and addressed to the Department of Social Studies Education, communicated the decision.
“This action is based on the students’ failure to meet the minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGP requirement of 1.0 and/or exceeding the permissible number of failed courses after resits, as stipulated in section 4.2.1 of the Revised Undergraduate Students Handbook (2019).
This decision was made after an audit and review of their First and Second Semester Examination results (2023/2024 Academic Year), during which the affected students received counseling prior to their withdrawal,” the letter explained.
As a result, these students cannot proceed to Level 200, attend lectures, or participate in examinations. The department was also instructed to update its records accordingly.
“Please ensure appropriate measures are taken to reflect these changes in your course register.
“The attached document details each student’s index number, name, and reason for withdrawal. Your prompt attention to this matter is crucial,” the letter added.
Among the 38 withdrawn students, 32 had a CGPA below 1.0, while six failed more than three courses by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year.
UEW is not the only institution enforcing strict academic policies. The University of Ghana (UG) has also introduced regulations requiring undergraduate students to maintain a minimum CGPA of 1.0 to retain their enrollment.
These measures highlight the growing emphasis on academic performance, with students who fail to meet the required standards facing the risk of dismissal.
Professor Stephen Jobson Mitchual, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts to advance STEM education in nearby schools.
To support this initiative, UEW is providing students at the basic and secondary levels with training in robotics and other science-related fields, equipping them with essential skills before they progress to higher education.
Through a community-based STEM program, the university has been actively engaging schools in hands-on learning experiences. A significant achievement of these efforts is a pioneering project by UEW’s Physics Department, which has developed a solar-powered outboard motor for fishing using advanced STEM applications.
Dr. Desmond Appiah of the Physics Department highlighted the benefits of this innovation, noting that it offers a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional fishing methods.
He illustrated the application of various STEM principles in multiple aspects of the initiative.
“We have displayed basic experiments here today where students will have hands-on practice. As an institution, we have partnered with various institutions, and we are coming up with the piloting of a solar-powered outboard motor to help the local fishermen install these solar panels to power their boats.
“Our main idea is to upgrade their way of fishing. This is going to help them in the sense that buying premix fuel will be a thing of the past. We are going to input certain devices that can help store enough energy during the day so they can use it in the evening when they are fishing” Dr.Desmond Appiah of the Physics Department of the University said.
Students enrolled in the Distance Education program at the St. John Campus of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), expressed their disappointment with the institution’s management and urged the Ministry of Education to intervene and maintain standards.
These students, nearing the completion of their National Service Scheme (NSS) and anticipating graduation later this month, encountered a hurdle imposed by the university’s management.
They were instructed to provide receipts for their school fees spanning from 2019 to 2024 before being cleared for graduation.
This requirement sparked frustration among the students, who saw it as indicative of mismanagement and a lack of leadership on the part of UEW.
They argued that they had already submitted all necessary receipts before their final exams last year, and producing receipts for each academic year over the past four years would be impractical.
The students perceived this demand as unreasonable and potentially discriminatory, given the challenges of retrieving receipts from multiple years.
They insisted that their prior compliance with financial obligations should be sufficient for graduation clearance.
Expressing their concerns, the students emphasized the administrative burden placed upon them by this unexpected requirement, particularly as they approached the culmination of their academic journey.
In response to these grievances, the students called upon the Ministry of Education to intervene and ensure that UEW upholds fairness and transparency in its administrative processes.
They sought a resolution that recognized their prior compliance with financial obligations and facilitated their smooth transition to graduation without undue obstacles.
The dispute underscored broader issues of accountability and student welfare within tertiary institutions, highlighting the need for clear and equitable policies that support student success.
The family of Rita Anane, a third-year ICT student at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), who was discovered lifeless in her hostel room on Wednesday morning, has disputed any notion of a possible suicide.
They have requested a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding her demise.
Anane was found in her room, not far from the campus, with a sponge inexplicably looped around her neck and attached to the ceiling fan hook.
However, family members have begun to cast doubt on the suicide theory. They point out that her room and its immediate surroundings remained orderly, and the sponge supposedly used for the act had no knot tied in it.
According to relatives, there were no apparent signs of depression in the deceased, and she consistently received support from her loved ones.
Reports indicate that Rita’s boyfriend, known as George, had been accusing her of infidelity and had reportedly hacked her phone, which ultimately led to the end of their relationship.
Curiously, George visited her hostel around 10 p.m. on the night before her demise and was the first to report her death to the landlord.
Additionally, some eyewitnesses have mentioned that George exhibited suspicious nail marks on the back of his hands when he was questioned by the police, heightening concerns that he might have been involved in Anane’s untimely passing.
The family is placing their hope in the hands of law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. Meanwhile, they seek solace and comfort in their faith as they grapple with this tragic loss.
The Governing Council of the University of Education, (UEW) Winneba, has chosen Professor Stephen Jobson Mitchual as the next Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
His term will commence on October 1, 2023. With more than 20 years of experience in teaching and administration in the Higher Education sector, Prof. Mitchual brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.
His academic qualifications include a PhD in Wood Science and Technology from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2014, an MSc. in Wood Technology and Management from KNUST in 2005, and a BSc. in Agriculture Engineering obtained from KNUST in 1993.
Additionally, he holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the University of Cape Coast obtained in 1998.
Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual is currently a Professor of Wood Science and Technology. He began his journey at the University of Education, Winneba, Kumasi Campus as a Lecturer in the Department of Design and Technology Education in 2003.
Over the years, he has held various positions, including Dean, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Mathematics Education, and Dean of the Faculty of Technical Education.
Throughout his academic career, Prof. Mitchual has actively participated in teaching, supervising projects/theses, and conducting research in his areas of expertise, such as wood biomass energy, wood machining, sawmill safety, and technical education.
He has published numerous research findings in esteemed international journals.
Beyond academia, he is affiliated with various professional organizations, including the Society of Wood Science and Technology, USA, American Association for Precision Engineering, USA, Ghana Science Association, and the Chartered Institute of Administrators and Management Consultants, Ghana.
Prof. Mitchual’s significant contributions and leadership have extended to serving on several Boards and Committees of the University of Education, Winneba, and AAMUSTED (Affiliate of the University).
His appointment as Vice-Chancellor marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, and he is well-positioned to lead the University of Education, Winneba, to new heights of excellence.
The University of Education (UEW), Winnebahas strongly criticized the statement made by the Concerned Staff group, deeming it distasteful and unacceptable.
The group’s demand for the removal of Governing Council Chairman, Nana Ofori Ansah I, is described as unsavory and reprehensible by the university.
The Convener for the Concerned Staff of UEW, Professor George Kankam Senior, accused the Governing Council Chairman of blatantly going against the tenets of the university.
Professor Kankam claimed that Nana Ofori Ansah I has been dabbling in double standards by attempting to nominate someone who was not shortlisted for the position of vice-chancellor.
But the UEW in a statement described the claims by the group “as a diversionary tactic to coerce the Chairman to submit to their whims and caprices, however inimical it may be to achieving the mission and vision of the university.”
“Contrary to the impression that there is heightened tension at UEW and that the community is tipping towards a state of chaos, we wish to state unequivocally that there is absolute peace on campus with students, faculty, and other stakeholders going about their normal business.
“In fact, workers feel a renewed sense of energy and purpose in pursuing the mission and vision of the university. It is trite knowledge that this resurgent working environment at UEW has to a great extent come from the Council’s wisdom, under the leadership of Nana Ofori Ansah I, to constitute a reconciliation committee to hear aggrieved persons and the subsequent implementation of the committee’s recommendations.”
Below is the full statement by UEW
RE: STATEMENT BY CONCERNED STAFF OF THE UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA (UEW)
A statement by certain concerned staff of UEW signed by Prof. George Kankam, which he later followed up with an interview on Eyewitness News of Citi FM on Thursday, 1st June, 2023, in connection with the above-mentioned subject, has come to our attention.
The contents of the release are unsavoury, unfortunate, reprehensible, and targeted at running down the reputation and the relentless effort of the Council Chairman in his leadership to bring lasting peace to UEW.
Since his assumption of office in August 2021, the Chairman, apart from the numerous responsibilities of his office, which he has efficiently delivered, has been pivotal in unifying the various factions of UEW to advance the mission and vision of the university.
We view the statement as a diversionary tactic to coerce the Chairman to submit to their whims and caprices, however inimical it may be to achieving the mission and vision of the university. Be that as it may, we wish to respond as follows:
1. Contrary to the impression that there is heightened tension at UEW and that the community is tipping towards a state of chaos, we wish to state unequivocally that there is absolute peace on campus with students, faculty, and other stakeholders going about their normal business.
In fact, workers feel a renewed sense of energy and purpose in pursuing the mission and vision of the university. It is trite knowledge that this resurgent working environment at UEW has to a great extent come from the Council’s wisdom, under the leadership of Nana Ofori Ansah I, to constitute a reconciliation committee to hear aggrieved persons and the subsequent implementation of the committee’s recommendations. This fact can be verified by any media outlet interested in reporting the truth.
2. It is important to stress that the said 2021 Search Committee’s report was never received or tabled before Council at any point. The Chairman of the Council, therefore, has no idea where the said report is, let alone its contents.
Given the situation, how could the Council Chair accept or assume liability for the implementation of a report that he hasn’t seen or has any idea of its whereabouts? Critically, the said report was meant to look for a qualified candidate for appointment as Vice-Chancellor to assume office from 1st October 2021 (i.e. replacement for Prof. Afful-Broni), but as rightly pointed out by Prof. Kankam, an injunction was placed on the university, thus curtailing the then existing opportunity to consider the said report. With the reinstatement of Prof. Avoke, the report in question became moot, necessitating a new process to find the successor to Prof. Avoke, effective October 1, 2023.
3. On the allegations relative to the appointment of a new Chancellor, it is worthy of note that Council established a Search Committee in accordance with the UEW 2020 Statutes to find the new Chancellor. It was up to the Committee to do its work. We must stress that neither the Chairman nor the Council ever interfered with the Committee’s work.
The Search Committee alone made the decision to extend the deadline. It is also important to note that, contrary to the claim that the ultimate person appointed as Chancellor was not shortlisted, the Search Committee’s report presented to the Governing Council indicates that the now-appointed Chancellor was duly shortlisted.
4. It is a complete fabrication to claim that the Council Chairman introduced Prof. Mitchual as the incoming Vice-Chancellor to the President of the Republic of Ghana. To be clear, no one has been introduced by the Chairman anywhere as the next Vice-Chancellor.
5. The assertion that, barely seven months into his tenure, the local branches of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) issued a joint press statement calling on the appointing authorities to withdraw Nana Ofori Ansah I’s appointment as the Chairman of the Governing Council falls flat in the face.
The key is that the said statement was discredited as unilateral, and as a result, the authors of the said statement have since retracted and apologised unreservedly to Nana Ofori Ansah I. One is therefore at a loss as to why that statement can be used as the basis to lay claim to anything.
6. The allegation that the Council Chairman disregarded statutes and established procedures, for instance, in the appointment of the Chancellor for the university, is a red herring relative to UEW 2020 Statute Four (4), which provides for the appointment of a Chancellor.
The provisions of UEW 2020 Statute Four were accorded full legal effect. It would, therefore, have been better for appreciation if the specific provision(s) breached were stated. In the absence of the aforementioned, it is our considered view that the frivolous claim should be disregarded with the contempt it deserves.
7. Over the years, the university has always assigned a vehicle to the Council Chairman’s office for official engagements. The vehicle is kept in Winneba and released as and when necessary.
8. It is impossible and inappropriate to compare the circumstances surrounding the appointment of a vice-chancellor at UEW to those at the University of Ghana. The University of Ghana did not wake up one day to find a rightfully appointed officer thrown out of office because of the selfish and wicked agenda of some individuals.
So situations or challenges that may appear similar may have different underlying causes and therefore require different approaches to resolving them. It was very ingenious on the part of a professor of his calibre to comfortably make such a blind comparison.
9. Ironically, Prof. Kankam is on a post-retirement contract and acted as the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies for at least three years under Prof. Afful-Broni, contrary to statutory provision. Isn’t it also interesting that he claims to represent convocation on the search party when the statutes make no provision for convocation representation but rather academic board representation? In any case, why go to town with the details of a search party report when the Council is not apprised of its details?
10. It must be indicated that Prof. Kankam is known to spew lies. About two weeks ago, he wrote to the Chairman alleging the award of two contracts at the university at the cost of GHS100 million each to “pre-determined National Democratic Congress (NDC) contractors and asking the Chairman to give the said contracts to New Patriotic Party (NPP) contractors” when, in actual fact, it was an open advertisement in the national dailies for pre-qualification (expression of interests).
He has for some time made unsuccessful overtures to win favours from the chairman, hence his hatred for the Chairman and the subsequent spewing of lies. His actions come from none other than a frustrated and mischievous retiree (pensioner) who is desperately seeking an extension of his post-retirement contract and does not see his way clear.
On the basis of the aforementioned information, we implore the general public to treat his press statement and subsequent interview with the disdain they merit.
Concerned University of Education Winneba (UEW) staff members have stated that chairman of the governing council, Nana Ofori Ansah I, must be quickly ousted or the university will be in disaster.
Speaking to the media, the Convener for the Concerned Staff of UEW, Professor George Kankam Senior, accused the Governing Council Chairman of blatantly going against the tenets of the university.
Professor Kankam claimed that Nana Ofori Ansah I has been dabbling in double standards by attempting to nominate someone who was not shortlisted for the position of vice chancellor.
“Nana Ofori Ansah I’s council is trying to plunge the university into chaos… Nana Ofori Ansah I is pushing for Professor Stephen Mitchual to be the vice chancellor though he was not shortlisted. As a governing chair, are you not exhibiting double standards?” he asked.
Professor Kankam Senior alleged that Nana Ofori Ansah I is only pursuing his own personal interests and not working in the best interests of the university. He added that they will send a letter to the President Akufo-Addo, requesting for Nana Ofori Ansah I’s removal.
“When Nana Ofori Ansah I came, he openly told us that he did not have thorough knowledge about university management and administration. We thought that was even good for him to be frank about it. So we thought that having said that, he was going to learn. But that is not the case. We are asking for his removal. We are following it up to send a letter to the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. We are in the university, and we want UEW to be developed. We don’t want the university to be run for people’s personal interests,” he stated.
In a statement, the Concerned Staff of the University of Education Winnebaargued that the “actions and inactions of the Chairman of the Governing Council, Nana Ofori Ansah I, whose continuous autocratic tendencies, coupled with his arbitrary disregard for laid down procedures in the running of the University, has led to heightened tension in the University, which can explode at any moment.”
President Akufo-Addo is being entreated by a group known as the Concerned Staff of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) to relieve the university’s Council Chairman, Nana Ofori Ansah I, of his duties.
The group also wants the Council to be dissolved as it has allegedly not been able to serve its mandate under Nana Ofori Ansah I, alleged to be authoritative.
The association argues that such conduct has escalated tensions and warns that the situation could potentially erupt into a crisis.
Nana Ofori Ansah I is facing allegations of significant leadership weaknesses since assuming office, fostering an environment of uneasiness, and actively plotting to disrupt the harmony at UEW while disregarding the University’s statutes and established protocols.
The concerns raised by the Concerned Staff of UEW highlight the growing discontent and dissatisfaction among the university community regarding the leadership style of Nana Ofori Ansah I.
The staff members believe that his approach poses a threat to the overall stability and progress of the institution.
“As clearly stated above, the call for the immediate dissolution of the UEW Governing Council and the subsequent dismissal of Nana Ofori Ansah 1 from office as Council Chairman of UEW is justified without a doubt.
He pursues his personal interest and the interests of other UEW saboteurs and saboteurs of Ghana at large at the expense of the entire UEW and Ghana as a whole. His continued stay in office as the Governing Council Chairman is a threat to the peace and stability of the University,” citinewsroom quoted a press release.
The University of Education Winneba (UEW) has elected Omanhen of the Effutu Traditional Area in the Central Region, Neenyi Ghartey VII as its chancellor.
Neenyi Ghartey becomes the second Chancellor afterAlhaji Asuma Bandawho was appointed in 2010 and ended his tenure in 2015.
At an impressive investiture ceremony fused with academic veneration and culture and graced by the President Akufo-Addo, Neenyi Ghartey was robed as chancellor by the Chairman of the university’s Governing council,Nana Ofori Ansah, the vice chancellor, Prof Mawutor Avoke and assisted by the President.
He was then placed on the seat as chancellor.
Excitement and cheers
The Creative Arts Department of the university brought the assembly to excitement and cheers when they presented the robes for the chancellor in a “deer” in a creative enactment of the famous deer hunt festival of the people of Winneba.
The President Nana Akufo Addo in his remarks said he was certain that Neenyi Ghartey, an outstanding traditional ruler would work to ensure UEW stayed with its core mandate to produce professional educators to spearhead a new national vision of education aimed at redirecting Ghana’s efforts along the path of rapid economic and social development.
He said he was optimistic the university which he described as one of Ghana’s best would continue to produce graduates who were prepared to take on opportunities and possibilities for higher achievement through innovation and creativity in today’s science and technology and knowledge driven economic and champion prosperity for the mass of Ghanaians.
President Akufo-Addo observed that Neenyi Ghartey was taking over from one of Ghana’s notable sons, Alhaji Asuma Banda who for his selfless service to the university helped it be adjudged the third best university in the country in 2016 and the most sustainable university last year.
Worthy chancellor
He indicated that the university could not have picked a worthy successor saying he was hopeful that Neenyi Ghartey, a firm believer in academic freedom would employ his wealth of experience to ensure a seamless transition and further propel the university to greater heights.
Touching on the youth and development, he said he had a guiding principle that leaders had the responsibility to bring up a generation that fulfilled the dreams of the great patriots of the country and who would bring to bear the full meaning of freedom and justice, a generation who would live a new Ghanaian civilization equal to any on the face of the planet and the urged the nation’s youth to work to to embrace the greatness that beckons.
He further gave the assurance that government was steadfast to the commitment of continued support to UEW and all other universities in the country.
Neenyi Ghartey for his part thanked thanked the president and the governing council and management of the university for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to execute the role to the best of his abilities.
Concerted efforts needed
He said the challenging times that contend educational institutions and the global constraints amidst fierce competition from among Ghanaian universities for students necessitated concerted efforts from all stakeholders to achieve the university’s mandate.
He said the opportunity to lead the university filled him with great zeal dedication and commitment and pledged to work to make the university the best teacher education university in West Africa.
Close working relationship
Neenyi Ghartey said he had had close working relationship with the management of the university since it was a college of education saying he would work propel the university to higher heights using all his experience saying it was a university with promise for the government and people of Ghana.
He said he would work with management to put the past behind and reorient the workforce to work to uplift the university, its campuses and the Winneba community.
He thanked the President the management of the university and his predecessor for the successes chalked so far and pledged to build on it.
Nana Ofori Ansah
Nana Ofori Ansah for his part described Neenyi Ghartey as a friend of the university who had made remarkable contributions to the development of the university as a member of the university’s Governing council from 2017-2021.
He pledged the council’s support for the chancellor to ensure he his stewardship successful.
Background
Neenyi Ghartey had his Ordinary and Advanced level certificates from Accra Academy and Winneba Secondary School and then to the University of Ghana where he was he gained a bachelor of science in Agriculture.
He earned a commonwealth scholarship to study in India where he obtained advanced knowledge poultry nutrition and feeding and also undertook further studies in Israel.
He has worked an agricultural officer extensively supporting the farmer development.
He also holds a Master of Philosophy from the University of Cape Coast.
He was enstooled as Omahen of the Effutu Traditional Area in 1996.
Management of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has said that all challenges students faced in accessing their portals and grades have been resolved.
A press release dated October 10, 2022 said Level 400 students who were affected the most, by the issue, can now have full access to the proper records of their academic work.
The school’s Management admitted that the challenges it had in updating the portal dates back to 2018 but “the current Management took the audacious initiative to resolve the challenges with the results of over 8,000 students as far back as June, 2022.”
“Having come this far to successfully update students’ portals based on bulk data collated from the activities of the Students’ Help Desk, we expect our level 400 students to access their portals to check the updated results and resort to laid down processes to address their concerns if any are identified,” part of the press release said.
On Monday, October 10, some level 400 students of UEW demonstrated against the school’s Management over what they described as not a true reflection of their academic work.
The students, clad in red and black, said the Management has not shown any urgency in resolving their complaints.
They insisted that it is a deliberate attempt by school authorities not to release their results on the students’ portal.
“We wish to state that we are on the same page with our Level 400 students in the quest for accurate and clean results to enable them to graduate. Consequently, we are prepared to stay with them side-by-side on this cause to ensure that every single issue with their results is resolved.
“We expect, on the other hand, that our level 400 students will resort to dialogue for all genuine concerns to be addressed if any are identified in the process to meet our collective goal,” the press release added.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) says it will be deploying auditors to the University this week to audit the grading system.
The Management of the University of Education, Winneba has said that it will reschedule examinations that were boycotted by final year students of the school on Monday, October 10, 2022.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Registrar, Wilhemina Tete-Mensah highlighting the prompt actions the institution has made to address all academic results by final-year students.
“This is to inform all students of University of Education, Winnebathat the conduct of the End of Semester Examinations for the 2021/2022 Academic Year will take place as scheduled. The ones that were interrupted by students will be rescheduled. All Deans and Heads of Department are to note and act accordingly and communicate the dates to their students when rescheduled,” part of the statement said.
The leadership further stated that access has now been granted to level 400 students to check their results, however, students who may still find it difficult to access their portals would have to visit the Student Centre for help.
“We wish to assure all students that Management has their welfare at heart and has resolved to continue to lend the necessary support to students to ensure that any concern brought to our attention is redressed appropriately,” the statement concluded.
On Monday, October 10, 2022 some level 400 students protested against the administration of the school in response to issues with their grading system.
A section of the protesting students asserted that their grades have been altered, while others claimed they were unable to log on to the student portal to check their results.
They attributed all these challenges to transition from an old system to one which is improperly structured.
As such, the students refused to participate in the end of semester examination. The students, who were clothed in red and black, alleged that the school’s management had not taken any immediate action to address their concerns.
They argued that the decision by school administrators to withhold their results from being posted on the student portal was intentional.
According to the Director-General of GTEC, Prof. Mohammed Salifu, its outfit will see to it that the right thing is done in order to maintain law and order in the school.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that anytime the systems that the
university puts in place are not working well, we move in there and hold them to account.
“We will have to get in and do a snap audit to make sure the systems are functioning as they should. Clearly, when you hear students protesting like this, it means there is something wrong. The auditors are supposed to be there this week to begin the work,” he added.
In a press release dated October 10, 2022, the university indicated that the level 400 students, who were mainly affected by the issue, can now access their portals to get the proper record of their academic work.
It explained that 8000 students were affected by the challenge which began in 2018 but it has now been resolved due to the instrumentality of the current university administration.
“The Management of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), wishes to inform level 400 students of the university and the general public that student portals have been successfully updated, and level 400 students have full access to their portals.
“The challenge at hand is a four-year-old issue that dates back to 2018. The current Management took the audacious initiative to resolve the challenges with the results of over 8,000 students as far back as June 2022.
“Having come this far to successfully update students’ portals based on bulk data collated from the activities of the Students’ Help Desk, we expect our level 400 students to access their portals to check the updated results and resort to the laid down processes to address their concerns if any are identified,” parts of the statement read.
On Monday, October 11, some final year students at the University of Education, Winneba protested what they say are disparities between results on the school’s online system and notice boards.
Sources at the school indicated that students are unhappy about the inability of the school’s management to determine their various classes, although they have completed most courses and received their marks and transcripts for same.
This comes following earlier protests in September when students had to be dispersed by police after they protested discrepancies in their results posted online and on the university’s notice boards.
The students, who were disappointed about the cancellation of a scheduled meeting between level 400s and management to resolve the issues, broke some sign posts and tree branches and blocked some roads on campus.
Ahead of what they say are their final papers, some final-year students recently protested again, citing the inability to determine their final marks as the reason.
The students said the school system for checking grades, which was the notice board, had been upgraded such that students now have to log into a portal to access their grades, but the grades they have received, which were previously posted on the notice boards, differ from those on the school’s portal.
Read the full statement issued by the university below:
Students of the University of Education Winneba (UEW) will today, Monday, October 10, 2022 embark on another demonstration against the management of the school.
The students have been agitating over the management’s failure to resolve concerns about their Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).
Authorities of the school were given an October 7, 2022 ultimatum to settle the outstanding issue, but have failed to do so.
The students say they will protest to demand a resolution to their concerns.
In addition, the agitated students say they will not partake in an exams scheduled for them this week.
“What they are doing is just to frustrate us. They are telling us to write a re-sit on Monday. We are not going to write the exams. If things are not done in order, we will retaliate,” one of the affected students spoke to Citi News on condition of anonymity.
Last Friday, students on the Southern campus of the university protested to express their outbursts.
Students have been complaining that the school had not been updating their GPA records
The agitation came with the students expected to graduate in the next few weeks. The school is also setting up a help centre to receive complaints.
Authorities of the school had given an October 7, 2022 ultimatum to settle the outstanding issues but still not be able to do so.
Students on the Southern campus of the university on Friday protested express their outburst.
They have therefore threatened to stage another demonstration on Monday, October 10, 2022 to have their concerns addressed.
In addition, the agitated students say they will not partake in an exams scheduled for them next week.
“What they are doing is just to frustrate us. They are telling us to write a re-sit on Monday. We are not going to write the exams. If things are not done in order, we will retaliate,” one of the affected spoke to Citi News on condition of anonymity.
Students have been complaining that the school had not been updating their GPA records
The agitation came with the students expected to graduate in the next few weeks.
The school is also setting up a help centre to receive complaints.
A former Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Prof. Jophus Anamuah-Mensah has expressed worry about the inadequate number of science and mathematics teachers to champion the teaching and learning of the subjects in the schools.
“It is lamentable that after more than 50 years, many senior high schools do not have qualified science and mathematics teachers,” he said.
He, therefore, underscored the need to take a closer look at various programmes comprising; content, pedagogy, assessment and the need to use data in the training of teachers going forward.
Prof. Anamuah-Mensah, made the call at a lecture organised by the College of Education Studies of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) as part of activities being held to mark the UCC@60 anniversary celebrations.
It was on the theme: “College of Education Studies: past, present and future.”
Prof Anamuah-Mensah underscored the need for the college to take the initiative in strengthening Science, Technology Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education by introducing engineering and robotics in its partner basic education schools.
He indicated that with the introduction of STEM education in senior high schools and the construction of state-of-the-art STEM special schools, the college should be ready to offer STEM as an integrated programme with its accompanying engineering studies, aeronautics, biomedicine, coding and robotics as practically oriented subjects in the training of STEM teachers.
Prof.Anamuah-Mensah indicated that the College should not place emphasis on Internally Generated Funds (IGF) alone but also on producing quality human resource for the country.
He further called for the adoption of endogenous knowledge systems such as herbal medicine, traditional healing, blacksmithing, vulcanising, fishing practices, farming practices, food production, traditional stories and poems, extraction processes, traditional games and toys.
“These are the cultural heritage of our people and they are easily available resources that can support the teaching of a number of school subjects including science, mathematics, language, and history,” he said.
He further said: “robust research into these may yield valuable products for the country. A strong research base in this area is required to unearth this knowledge for our development.”
The provost of the College of Education, Prof Ernest Kofi Davis, in an address, stated that the College had supported the government’s agenda over the year, saying, “For example, the College through the Institute of Education is graduating the first batch of students on the new B.Ed. curriculum run at the Colleges of Education in Ghana.”
He explained that, the College developed a tailored Post Diploma programme based on the new B.Ed. curriculum run at the Colleges of Education to upgrade Diploma holders upon the request of the Ministry of Education and the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT).
He indicated that the College was collaborating with schools within the Cape Coast metropolis and Regional and Metropolitan Education offices through the Adoption of Schools project.
“Through this project, departments within the College work closely with local schools to identify school level problems and work collaboratively with them to solve the problems,” he said.
He further said that: “This collaboration has brought the College and the Cape Coast Metropolitan Education officer closer in our bid to find ways to improve learning outcomes of students in the Metropolis.”
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has given stakeholders until October 7,2022, to address student concerns about their cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA), which has sparked controversy on campus.
The school has also confirmed that there will be some changes to the GPAs starting on September 26th following a meeting with protesting final-year students.
A statement from the school said, “result-related issues that have been submitted by various departments have been collated and are being uploaded for students to view online in the coming week.”
Last Friday, September 23, 2022, some level 400 students at the institution blocked roads with tree branches, preventing vehicles from entering the university as they protested discrepancies in their results.
They marched through campus as a scheduled meeting expected to take place between final year students and management over the students’ concerns did not happen.
Their actions disrupted lectures and some administrative activities, thereby compelling the school’s authorities to call for police intervention.
The Police fired tear gas at the protesting students, who later ran helter-skelter to find safety.
Aside from the assurance to address the recent challenge, management of the school has established a support desk to handle complaints.
In view of this, management has advised students to “turn to discussion to get any issues resolved.”
“They are also urged to make use of the established practices and instructions provided to hasten the resolution of their issues,” the school added.
The University of Education, Winneba, has given stakeholders up till October 7, 2022, to settle student concerns about their cumulative Grade Point Average.
After a meeting with protesting final-year students, the school also assured that there will be some updates to the GPAs starting from September 26.
Students have been complaining that the school had not been updating their GPA records.
The agitation came with the students expected to graduate in about three weeks.
“Result-related issues that have been submitted by various departments have been collated and are being uploaded for students to view online in the coming week,” a statement from the school said.
The school is also setting up a help centre to receive complaints.
After the school’s students demonstrated on Friday because of the lack of action from the school, UEW’s management urged students to instead “resort to dialogue to have any issues resolved.”
“They are also entreated to take advantage of the laid down procedures and directives given for the speedy resolution of their problems.”
Level 400 students of theUniversity of Education, Winneba (UEW), have demonstrated because of what they say is a deliberate attempt by school authorities not to update the cumulative record of students for the last three years.
The students among many accusations are blaming the data protection unit of the school for failing to update the records on their portals, making the various portals of the students empty.
The school is expected to hold its graduation for the final year students in three weeks’ time.
The students say they are not able to track their academic performance as a result of the school failing to update the portal.
Demonstrating students are not allowing vehicles to enter the campus and have blocked the main entrance of the school.
Persons caught taking pictures of the demonstration have had their phones seized.
The Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has said that four of its students lost their lives in the road accident at Asuboi and not nine as reported early.
In a Neat FM interview monitored by GhanaWeb, the Public Relations Officer of the SRC, Shadrach Appiah, said that although nine people died, only four were students, and the others were passengers who joined the students.
“Because of the increases in prices of fares, students normally organise buses to the school because it is relatively cheaper. The bus involved in the accident was the last bus from Sunyani, and it had 35 students and other passengers the driver picked on the way because the bus was not full.
“Two of the students who died are male, and the other two female. The bus organiser was able to identify the two ladies, but he could not identify the gentlemen. I can confirm that one of the students was in level 300, the others were continuing students, but I have not been able to confirm their level as of now,†Appiah said in Twi.
The SRC PRO also disclosed that some of the students were gravely wounded, with three of the injured students referred to a health facility in Koforidua and subsequently to Accra.
It was reported on Sunday, March 14, 2022, that nine people died in an accident on the Asuboi road, a suburb of Suhum on the Accra-Kumasi highway, after a bus with registration number AK324-22 crashed into an articulated truck parked on the road.
The driver of the Hyundai bus who was allegedly sleeping while driving failed to observe traffic and in the process crashed into the forty footer container
Nine students of the University of Education, Winneba have been confirmed dead while several others are injured after they were involved in an accident on Sunday.
The accident which occurred at Asuboi, a suburb of Suhum on the Accra-Kumasi highway, involved a Hyundai Universe commercial bus.
The incident happened after the bus they were travelling on from Sunyani to Accra crashed into a stationery articulated truck.
The driver of the bus with registration number AK324-22 is reported to have failed to observe traffic regulations because he was allegedly sleeping.
A 40-footer truck loaded with wood fell onto the road due to the impact of the accident, killing eight persons instantly.
The Eastern Regional Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ebenezer Tetteh, said the Police have launched investigations into the incident.
According to him, the bodies have been deposited at the Suhum Government Hospital morgue while the injured are receiving treatment at the same facility.
“On-the-spot investigations at the section of the accident spot at Asuboi on the Accra-Kumasi dual carriage road, indicated that the driver of the said commercial bus failed to observe traffic ahead whilst he was allegedly sleeping.
“In the process, he crashed into a 40-footer container loaded with wood which fell partially on the road as a result of a previous accident. The passengers who sustained the injuries have been transported to the Suhum Government Hospital and are receiving treatment whilst the dead have been deposited at the Suhum Government Hospital morgue awaiting autopsy,†he told JoyNews in an interview.
The Ahafo regional police command has declared one Kwame Capo wanted for killing his wife at Kwame Nkran a farming community in the Asunafo district of the Ahafo region.
The 32-year-old lady whose name has been given as Gifty was shot dead by her husband in the early hours of Thursday 9th September 2021.
According to information gathered, the now-deceased Gifty allegedly threatened to divorce her husband, Kwame Capo on Wednesday 8th September 2021 while the two engaged in an argument.
Kwame Capo who could not afford the shame of losing his wife unfortunately shot his wife who was nursing a six-month-old baby.
The Kwame Nkran residents upon hearing the sound of the gun rushed to the crime scene and noticed the nursing mother in a pool of blood.
The lifeless body of the lady has since been conveyed to Goaso government hospital for autopsy as the Ashafo regional police command hunts for the husband.
Over 70,000 new students will be admitted to the University of Education, Winneba, for the 2020/2021 academic year.
This was disclosed by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Anthony Afful-Broni.
He says that the numbers include the first batch of free Senior High School beneficiaries.
In a media engagement, he mentioned that the university is making conscious efforts to receive the estimated number.
“We are going to take a total of about 70,000 students. It may even be more. But as far as facilities are concerned, we are purchasing new services and enhancing our equipment.”
Professor Anthony Afful-Broni also indicated that the university was preparing to employ more teaching and non-teaching staff to ensure a smooth running of the academic year.
“We are doing well to employ more competent IT people, even lecturers, and administrators to support the delivery of a very effective and robust academic programme for our university,†he added.
According to Prof. Afful-Broni, the university has so far received over 52,000 applications from prospective students seeking admission for the 2020/2021 academic year.
The Winneba high court has today July 27, 2020 quashed the November 21, 2019 Pro-VC Elections of University of Education Winneba(UEW).
The court, presided over by Winneba High court judge, Justice Aboagye Tanoh further orders for an immediate conduct of fresh elections for the Pro-VC position.
Contrary to the university’s statute, professor Afful Broni made a nomination which led to the election of Dr. Andy Ofori-Birikorang as a candidate for the Pro-VC Elections
This decision by Professor Afful Broni was however challenged in the Winneba High court thereby ordering for a re-hearing.
According to the court, Dr afful broni had no power under section 672 A and UEW statutes to nominate persons for the position of a Pro-Vice Chancellor.
A cost of GHC5000 was also awarded to the plaintiff.
Lawyer for the plaintiff and MP for Efutu constituency, Mr Alexander Afenyo-Markin expressed content with the court’s hearing.
“The high Court in Winneba has held that University of Education statutes does not permit the Vice Chancellor to nominate for the purpose of election a Pro-Vice Chancellor. Accordingly the court quashed the decision of professor Aful-Broni to nominate three persons for the election. In effect the court pronounced that the Dr Afful’s decision cannot hold,” he stated.
According to him, the court ruling cleary vindictes the stance of his client, Dr Frimpong Kaakyire who is a lecturer at UEW and a former UTAG President.
Background
A lecturer and former UTAG President, Dr Frimpong Kaakyire Duku, has sued the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) over the processes for the election of a Pro-Vice-Chancellor.
Dr Duku, represented by Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin described the process of the election as “discriminatory and illegalâ€.
The lecturer alleged in his suit that the process was limited to a chosen few to the disadvantage of other equally qualified persons.
As a result of the suit filed on Thursday, 13 June 2019 at the High Court, Winneba, the university authorities have suspended the poll scheduled for today, Friday, 14 June 2019 until further notice.
Government has commenced processes to convert the Kumasi Campus of the University of Education, Winneba into the University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development.
The University will have the mandate of training teachers in Practical Skills and Entrepreneurship.
The Bill that will allow the conversation went through the Second Reading in Parliament on Friday.
The Minister of State in-charge of Tertiary Education, Prof. Kwasi Yankah says the conversion will allow teachers are equipped with the required skills.
“The conversation will bring into focus the relevance of technical and vocational training to national development and the need to achieve national development in that regard.
The proposed university will develop to the level of awarding Doctorate Degrees in technical and vocational training thereby providing a workforce with the requisite skills. This will undoubtedly increase productivity, encourage investment as well, reduce unemployment, and improve the socio-economic sector of the country,†he added.
Arrival of Students of the University of Education Winneba (UEW), Winneba Campus was not encouraging when Ghana News Agency (GNA) visited the three campus (Central, South and North) in Winneba.
About 50 students had reported, as per survey conducted at the campuses as at 1100hrs on Monday.
However, information gathered from the Academic Affairs of the University indicated that final year students of the four campuses of UEW in the country were expected to report at their various campuses to continue with academic work and writing of their final examination.
A total of 9,675 final years students are expected to report at the four Campuses (Winneba 5,403, Ajumako 622, Mampong 934 and Kumasi 2,716).
At the main entrance of the various campuses in Winneba, security personnel checked the temperature of all people entering the premises of the University, amidst ensuring that the other safety protocols were adhered to, before being allowed entry.
Speaking to some of the students who had arrived on the Winneba campus, they expressed delight that they will be finishing their examination soon and assured that they will strictly adhere to the protocols to enable them to return to home safely.
Public and Private Universities across the country say they are ready to resume academic work as final year students return to school today, June 15, 2020.
The partial reopening as announced by the government will see final year University students resume lectures to enable them to take their exit exams.
Chairman of Vice-Chancellors Ghana, Professor Ebenezer Oduro says adequate measures have been put in place to protect students, teaching and non-teaching staff.
“All universities are obliging to reopen and so come the 15th, Monday, all universities will reopen so students who want to come to campus are free to come to campus. Those who for one reason or the other feel that they are safe where they are and they have access to internet facilities and they will want to stay at home while we continue our online things,†he said.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellors called for the provision of adequate personal protective equipment to supply students.
Prof. Oduro Owusu at a different forum said it will not auger well for the schools if students demand on PPE and the schools are unable to make any provision.
“Students will start demanding PPE immediately they arrive on campus and if we are unable to supply them, you can rest assured that certain words will go to the public.â€
“So we are pleading with you and your very good team to ensure that these PPEs are well provided,†Prof. Owusu stated.
The government over the weekend made available Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and logistics to 234 universities in the country.
Addressing journalists in Accra, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah said the 234 tertiary institutions are dotted across the country.
“In all, we are expecting about 200,000 persons to benefit from these logistics. In terms of the specific logistics, everybody is getting three face masks which are reusable so that will be about 600,000 unit of face masks,†he added.
The Minister said over 1,700 veronica buckets, over 200,000 two hundred ML units of hand sanitizers, and over 3,400 packets of soap and another 3,400 packets of tissue are being distributed.
“About 900 thermometers are also going to all of these schools in addition to the disinfection and other exercises that are going on there,†he added.
The University of Cape Coast (UCC) and the University of Education Winneba (UEW) confirmed the highest number of fake and unverified certificates by public sector employees, MyNewsGh.com reports
According to the Ghana Audit Service Payroll Report, the University of Cape Coast confirmed 45 certificates as fake submitted by public sector workers for employment, and 2,986 as unverified certificates.
The University of Education Winneba, on the other hand, did not confirm any fake certificates but has not been able to verify 8,967 certificates submitted by public sector workers for employment.
The University of Ghana and the KNUST confirmed 16 and 0 fake certificates, as well as two and 46 unverified certificates respectively.
In all, 19,346 were submitted with only 7,284 confirmed. A whooping 12,001 are number of certificates unverified.
To ascertain the authenticity of the outstanding doubtful academic certificates, the Ghana Audit Service provided data to the heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies/Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to liaise with the awarding institutions to confirm and submit a report for its further review within 3 months after the publication of this report.
The Ministry of Education recorded the highest number of 11,518 certificates unverified whilst 53 are fake.
It is followed by the Local Government Service and Ministry of Health with unverified certificates of 141 and 101 as well as fake certificates of three and one respectively.
The Interior and Finance Ministries recorded 56 and 26 unverified certificates, whilst the Judicial Service registered 18 unverified certificates.
The Auditor-General urged heads of the affected MDAs/MMDAs to conduct further investigation and institute disciplinary action against the 62 employees whose certificates were declared by the universities as fake.
The University of Education, Winneba has directed its entire staff to continue to work from their campuses despite the closure of the university amid the global novel coronavirus pandemic that has caused health crisis in some countries.
Although the university has since Monday, March 16 sent home all its students, it asked its staff to show up for work “to render critical services to keep the University runningâ€.
It encouraged staff to strictly adhere to precautionary measures set out by the World Health Organisation, the Ministry of Health and the University itself.
“The University will consequently be rolling out its academic programmes online through its Learning Management Systems (LMS),†it stated.
Meanwhile, all students of the university have been asked to stay at home until they are officially requested to report back to campus.
Ghana recorded its first two cases of the global pandemic on March 12 and the number has since shot up to seven.
All the cases were imported.
Health officials say the seven patients who are under mandatory quarantine are in a stable condition.
The covid-19 pandemic which originated in China late last year has infected more than 200,000 people and killed over 7,100 globally.
Government has announced what some believe to be bold measures, including travel restrictions and closure of all schools in the country as well as a ban of social gatherings to stem the spread of the virus.
Businesses and other workplaces however continue to operate, but have been directed to observe prescribed social distancing between patrons and staff.
Establishments, such as supermarkets, shopping malls, restaurants, night clubs, hotels and drinking spots, have also been advised by government to observe enhanced hygiene procedures by providing, amongst others, hand sanitizers, running water and soap for washing of hands.
University of Education, Winneba in the past two days has seen two senior lecturers been sacked by the Vice Chancellor Rev. Fr. Professor Anthony Afful-Broni. As a result of this, students from the 3 campuses in Winneba have embarked on demonstration on tuesday 12th March at the North Campus (Faculty) in view of reinstating the said sacked Senior Lecturers in the university.
Kampustoday.com can report that one student (Female) has collapsed in the course of the demo as they fight for their right. The student who was rushed to the hospital is currently under medical care.
Stay connected to kampustoday as we bring you the latest to this case as they unfold.
