No Cash To Start Volta University - Ayariga

After all the pomp and pageantry that characterized the sod-cutting ceremony by President Mills to commence work on the proposed university for the Volta Region, it has now emerged that there are no funds to execute the project.

According to a Deputy Minister of Education, Mr. Mahama Ayariga, though the design for the proposed University of Allied Sciences had been completed, with President Mills also cutting the sod for the start of the project, its execution would not be possible within the stated timeframe.

He noted that the government was now sourcing for funds from China to construct the proposed state university in the region. Mr. Mahama Ayariga said a draft bill for the establishment of the university had already been approved by cabinet, and would soon be presented to Parliament for approval.

The Deputy Education Minister said when the bill is approved and funds secured, the government would take all the necessary steps to facilitate the project.

The former Member of Parliament (MP) for Bawku Central, who was inspecting temporary facilities that would be used to start the University of Allied Sciences in the Ho Municipality, noted that public universities like the University of Ghana would be brought on board to assist the Volta University with its academic programs.

The decision, he noted had to do with the level of their expertise, which he said, would have positive bearing on the new university. Among the structures inspected for the commencement of the proposed state university include an old building at the Government Secretarial School, now being used by squatters.