Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has presented five Bills to Parliament to establish new universities in Ghana. These are:
1. University of Mampong
2. University of Health, Agriculture, and Life Sciences in Kintampo
3. University of Engineering and Applied Sciences
4. University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences in Bunso
5. University of Local Governance and Development
Dr. Adutwum explained that the University of Mampong will merge Mampong Technical College and the Mampong Campus of the Akenten Appiah-Menka University to improve local management. The Kintampo institution, currently a College of Health Sciences, is proposed to be upgraded to a university due to its strong track record.
The new University of Engineering and Applied Sciences in the Ahafo Region aims to provide advanced infrastructure for the region. The University in Bunso will focus on engineering and agricultural sciences, enhancing STEM education in Ghana.
These additions aim to increase the country’s gross tertiary enrollment ratio from the current 22% towards a target of 60%, which is crucial for sustainable development.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Minority Leader, expressed concerns about the financial implications of these new universities, especially with the limited time before the upcoming elections. He noted the absence of universities in the Oti and Western North Regions and stressed the need for detailed financial plans for the proposed institutions, including funding for infrastructure and amenities.