GCU Vice-Chancellor Appeals for Government Support for Private Universities
Prof. Eric Kwasi Ofori urges government to extend support to private universities as he unveils a five-year vision focused on innovation, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship.
- GCU Vice-Chancellor calls for greater government support for private universities.
- Unveils a five-year strategic vision centred on innovation and infrastructure.
- Okyenhene urges graduates to embrace entrepreneurship and ethical leadership.
The newly installed Vice-Chancellor of Garden City University (GCU), Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori, has appealed to the government to extend more support to private universities, including access to the Book and Research Allowance, to strengthen teaching, research and academic development in the sector.
Speaking at his investiture ceremony on July 9, 2026, at the university’s campus at Kenyasi in the Ashanti Region, Prof. Ofori also called on traditional authorities, alumni and corporate institutions to partner with the university to accelerate infrastructure development and enhance the quality of higher education delivery.
The investiture coincided with GCU’s 18th Congregation and attracted a number of distinguished guests, including the Paramount Chief of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, the Okyenhene, who was the guest of honour.
Strategic Vision
Outlining his five-year strategic agenda, themed “An Entrepreneurial GCU for Quality and Inclusive Tertiary Education, Infrastructural Advancement, Internationalisation, and Staff Motivation,” Prof. Ofori said universities that would shape the future of higher education in Africa would not necessarily be the largest institutions but those that are innovative, adaptable and purpose driven.
He explained that his vision is anchored on three key pillars: producing graduates who create value and solve societal problems rather than merely seek employment; cultivating an intrapreneurial culture among staff through innovation, accountability and continuous improvement; and achieving infrastructural sustainability through a Ten-Year Development and Maintenance Plan.
According to him, the university remains committed to providing quality and inclusive education while strengthening its international outlook and enhancing staff welfare and motivation.
Call for Entrepreneurial Development
In his address, the Okyenhene stressed the need for stronger support systems to enable university graduates to establish their own businesses and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He acknowledged that entrepreneurship remains a difficult path for many graduates and urged policymakers and educational institutions to create opportunities that would make it easier for young people to transition from school into enterprise.
“The future of Ghana and Africa depends largely on our ability to produce graduates who are not merely degree holders but critical thinkers, innovators, ethical leaders and job creators,” he said.
Challenge to New Vice-Chancellor
Osagyefo Ofori Panin II challenged Prof. Ofori to build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessors and position Garden City University among Africa’s leading centres of higher learning.
He noted that the responsibility of a Vice-Chancellor extends beyond managing a university to shaping minds, nurturing talents, promoting research and discovery, protecting academic freedom and driving institutional growth.
“We need leadership that is selfless and courageous. I am confident that under his leadership, GCU will strengthen its academic programmes, expand research activities, deepen industry partnerships and continue producing graduates who will make meaningful contributions to society,” he stated.
Advice to Students
The Okyenhene also advised students to make the most of the opportunities available to them by studying diligently, thinking critically and acting ethically.
Emphasising the importance of preparation in all aspects of life, he said success in academics, careers and personal relationships largely depends on one’s readiness and commitment.
He described education as the most sustainable investment any society can make and cited Prof. Ofori’s journey from Kyebi to becoming Vice-Chancellor of one of Ghana’s respected universities as a powerful example of the transformative power of education.
“His appointment should serve as an inspiration to every young Ghanaian. It reminds us that excellence is not accidental; it is the product of discipline, sacrifice, determination and the relentless pursuit of knowledge,” he said.
