Garden City University Vice-Chancellor Calls for Greater Government Support for Private Universities

The newly installed Vice-Chancellor of Garden City University (GCU), Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori, has called on the government to provide greater support for private universities, including extending the Book and Research Allowance to their academic staff to strengthen teaching, research, and institutional development.

Prof. Ofori made the appeal during his investiture ceremony held on July 9, 2026, at the university’s campus in Kenyasi, Ashanti Region. The ceremony coincided with GCU’s 18th Congregation and was attended by traditional leaders, academics, and other distinguished guests, including the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, who served as the guest of honour.

Presenting his five-year strategic agenda, themed “An Entrepreneurial GCU for Quality and Inclusive Tertiary Education, Infrastructural Advancement, Internationalisation, and Staff Motivation,” Prof. Ofori outlined his vision of transforming the university into an innovative, purpose-driven institution capable of producing graduates equipped to solve societal challenges.

He explained that his strategy is built around three key priorities: developing graduates who become entrepreneurs and problem-solvers rather than job seekers, fostering an entrepreneurial culture among university staff through innovation and accountability, and implementing a Ten-Year Development and Maintenance Plan to improve the institution’s infrastructure.

The Vice-Chancellor also appealed to traditional authorities, alumni, corporate organisations, and development partners to support the university’s growth by investing in infrastructure and academic development.

He reaffirmed Garden City University’s commitment to providing quality and inclusive higher education while expanding its international partnerships and improving staff welfare.

Addressing the gathering, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II emphasised the need for stronger support systems to help university graduates establish businesses and contribute to Ghana’s economic development.

The Okyenhene said Africa’s future depends on producing graduates who are not only degree holders but also innovators, ethical leaders, critical thinkers, and job creators capable of driving sustainable development.

He further encouraged Prof. Ofori to build on the achievements of previous university leaders by strengthening academic programmes, expanding research, deepening industry collaborations, and positioning Garden City University among Africa’s leading institutions of higher learning.

The investiture marked the beginning of a new leadership chapter for Garden City University, with renewed focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, research excellence, and institutional growth.