Bawumia announces conversion of SDA College of Education, others into university colleges

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President of Ghana, has announced that SDA College of Education and other similar institutions will soon be upgraded to full-fledged university colleges.

Speaking at the 14th congregation of SDA College of Education, represented by Eastern Regional Minister Seth Kwame Acheampong, Dr. Bawumia reiterated the commitment government to improving the quality of training of teachers.

“As the President of our Republic Nana Akufo-Addo stated some time ago, this SDA College of Education will be numbered among the first few colleges that will be converted to full university colleges soon.”

“I am told the people of New Juaben Traditional Area, especially the Asokore township, are dedicated to advancing this college into a full-fledged university college soon,” Dr. Bawumia’s speech read.

The Ministry of Education’s 2018 initiative to convert all public Colleges of Education into degree-awarding institutions is a key reform strategy.

According to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, the conversion process to a full-fledged university will involve a comprehensive assessment of each college’s faculty capacity, infrastructure, financial status, and regulatory compliance. The assessment results will be reviewed by the Minister for Education and then submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

Meanwhile, the SDA College of Education will implement a new grading policy starting from the 2024/2025 academic year. This policy, announced by Principal Prof. Vincent Adzahlie-Mensah, will include evaluations of student conduct such as adherence to dress codes and behaviour during lectures and exams.

“This decision aligns with national teaching standards and underscores the importance of ethical values and professional behaviour,” Prof. Adzahlie-Mensah said.

He also appealed for the construction of modern assembly and lecture halls to support the college’s anticipated growth.