GCTU has held a two-day Administrative and Leadership Training Workshop for Deans, Directors and Heads of Department on 27th and 28th February 2025.
The workshop, aimed at enhancing the leadership and administrative competencies of participants, provided an invaluable platform for engagement with distinguished experts on best practices in academic leadership and governance.
Opening Remarks
The workshop commenced with an inspiring address by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Robert Ebo Hinson, who emphasized the pivotal role of leadership in academia. He highlighted seven key qualities that university leaders should embody: visionary thinking, commitment to excellence, integrity, effective communication, teamwork, adaptability and dedication to student success. Prof. Hinson reiterated that leadership is not merely about titles but about service, influence and fostering a culture of excellence within the University.
The Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo, also underscored the need for continuous learning and adaptation to evolving educational landscapes. He noted that the workshop was organized to equip faculty leaders with the requisite skills to navigate the complexities of university administration effectively.
Key Presentations
he workshop featured expert facilitators who delivered insightful presentations across various critical areas of academic leadership and administration:
- Solomon Panford, Esq., APR (Former Registrar, UENR):
- The Roles and Responsibilities of Deans and Heads in University Administration.
- Criteria for Appointments and Promotions: Key Issues to Note.
- Building Academic Leadership Skills.
- Administrative Law: Salient Points for Academic Leadership.
- Prof. Ellis Owusu-Dabo (Former Pro VC, KNUST):
- Synergy Between Departments/Faculties and Industry.
- Preparing for Accreditation/Reaccreditation.
- Conduct of Examinations and Auditing of Examination Results: The Role of HoDs and Deans.
- Funding for Research and Development: The Role of HoDs and Deans.
- Prof. Stephen Asunka (Director of ICT, GCTU):
- IT Tools for Effective Administration.
- Mr. Ernest Yaw Awuah Apraku (Director of Finance, GCTU):
- Financial Management and Budgeting for Faculties and Departments: The Role of Deans and HoDs.
- Mr. Kennedy Oppong Fosu (Director of Internal Audit, GCTU):
- Auditing: A Critical Tool for Control in the University.
- Ms. Fatu Esi Sesay (Head of Procurement, GCTU):
- Procurement Laws and Procedures.
Summary of Workshop Sessions
The workshop sessions were highly engaging, equipping participants with practical knowledge and leadership insights. Highlights included:
- Day 1 focused on university administration, financial management, leadership principles, and internal auditing. Participants gained insights into budgetary planning, the importance of internal controls, and best practices for effective leadership. Mr. Panford emphasized the five key leadership traits: positivity, presence, promptness, product focus and passion.
- Day 2 delved into academic governance, accreditation processes, research funding and procurement laws. Prof. Owusu-Dabo provided a compelling analysis of research and development, noting Africa’s need for greater investment in scientific inquiry. Discussions also centered on the responsibilities of university heads in ensuring compliance with academic and administrative policies.
Conclusion and Appreciation
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to apply the knowledge gained in their respective roles. On behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the university extended heartfelt appreciation to the facilitators for their time and expertise. The insights shared during the sessions will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening leadership and fostering a culture of excellence at GCTU.
