UCC orients over 800 police cadet officers for Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies

The University of Cape Coast has organised an orientation programme for more than 800 cadet officers enrolling in its Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening professional education within Ghana’s security sector.

The orientation, held at the Ghana Police Academy and the Ghana Police Training School in Accra, welcomed the second cohort of officers undertaking the programme, which is offered by UCC’s Department of Forensic Sciences in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service.

The programme was designed to familiarise the officers with the university system and equip them with the information needed to successfully navigate their academic journey.

Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Prof. Sarah Darkwa, encouraged the cadet officers to remain committed to their studies, noting that postgraduate education demands a higher level of discipline and dedication. She explained that unlike undergraduate programmes, graduate students require a minimum score of 60 percent to pass their courses.

Prof. Darkwa urged the officers to study the University’s Academic Policies and Regulations for Graduate Studies, adding that copies had been distributed to help them understand expectations before the commencement of lectures. She also encouraged group studies and strict adherence to university regulations.

Head of the Department of Forensic Sciences, Prof. Christian Adokoh, expressed pride in hosting the programme and highlighted its importance in enhancing criminal investigations and strengthening the capacity of Ghana’s security services.

He disclosed that the Department currently offers a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Sciences alongside the Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies and revealed plans to introduce Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy programmes in Security and Forensic Sciences.

“The goal of the Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies is to provide students with knowledge in the principles and practice of leadership, management, and administration as it relates to security services,” he explained.

The Vice-Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Samuel Essamuah Assabil, guided the cadet officers through the Students’ Handbook and university policies, stressing the importance of responsible conduct and compliance with institutional rules.

Meanwhile, Head of the Students’ Records Section, Mr. Enoch Apori Ansah, educated participants on course registration procedures and the processing of examination results.

Commandant of the Ghana Police Academy, DCOP Dr. Herbert Gustav Yankson, encouraged the officers to take full advantage of the opportunity to obtain an academic qualification alongside their police training.

“Some of us didn’t get this opportunity when we were in the Academy, so do your best to grab the certificate from this prestigious university as part of your credentials. It would one day open avenues for you as you advance in your career,” he advised.

The initiative reflects UCC’s growing contribution to professional development within the security sector and its broader efforts to equip personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to address contemporary security challenges in Ghana and across Africa.