College of Agriculture Education reviews educational programmes

Mampong (Ash), Oct. 22, GNA - The College of Agriculture Education, of the University of Education, Winneba, has introduced new programmes to fulfil its mandate during the 2010/2011 academic year. The Vice-chancellor of the University, Professor Akwasi Asabere-Ameyaw, made this known at the 15th Congregation of the school, during which 358 graduates received their certificates at Asante-Mampong.

He said a new faculty of Science Education has been established, which has under it an umbrella Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Science Education as well as Diploma and Bachelors' Degree Programmes in Environmental Health and Sanitation Education. A new bachelor's programme in Biological Sciences Education would be introduced in the 2011/2012 academic year.

"If this is fulfilled, the College of Agriculture will be running 10 programmes.," he said.

Prof Asabere-Ameyaw said the college is undertaking two major research projects in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and the West African Agriculture Production Programme in integrated poultry manure and inorganic fertiliser for sustainable production of sweet potato and drying of cassava and sweet potato chips, using locally constructed solar dryer.

He said the university also recognises the need to expand the existing physical structures for effective academic delivery.

The Vice-Chancellor said a new library complex, hostel block as well as residential accommodation for staff and students are under construction. He identified inadequate funding for investment activities as the major challenge facing the university and called on stakeholders to help reverse the situation.

The Chairman of the University Governing Council, Dr Emmanuel Kenneth Andoh urged the graduates to carry with them renewed sense of mission, responsibility and determination to contribute meaningfully to the development of the nation.

He added that the university needs financial and material support from the government and non-governmental organisations for its growth and sustainability.

Mr Andoh commended the Ghana Education Trust Fund and the Teaching and Learning Innovative Fund for helping the university with infrastructural development.

At the College of Technology Education in Kumasi, a total of 3,609 students.

Some of the programmes introduced by the university comprise Banking and Finance, Fashion Design and Textile, Catering, Hospitality and Purchasing and Supply.