VC Cuts Sod For 6-storey Graduate School Extension Project

The VC (2nd right) handing the project drawings to the Consultant, Architect Hope (2nd left)

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, officially broke ground this morning for the construction of a six-storey building as part of the second phase of the University’s Graduate School Extension Project.

The ceremony, held at the construction site, marked the formal commencement of the project, which is slated to be completed within 24 months.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Afoakwa expressed his excitement about the project, noting the hard work and collaboration that secured the necessary financial and regulatory approvals. “This is yet another milestone achieved at a critical time. Through persistent effort and by the grace of God, we have obtained financial clearance from GETFund and all procurement processes have been completed,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor elaborated on the scope of the project, emphasizing its importance to the university’s expanding graduate programmes. The new building, though described as six-storey, will include a basement that will house an auditorium, bringing the total levels to seven. Four floors will be dedicated to lecture rooms, while two will be reserved for administrative offices.

The VC challenged the Contractor to complete the project well-ahead of schedule

Prof. Afoakwa urged the contractor to expedite construction, expressing hope that the project could be completed in 18 months instead of the contractual 24 months. “Our graduate school programmes are growing rapidly and this project will play a critical role in accommodating the increasing number of students,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the consultant, Zim Multi-Consult Ltd, Architect Hope assured stakeholders of their dedication to delivering high-quality work. “We pledge to provide the best services and are confident in the contractor’s ability to deliver within 12 to 18 months, despite the 24-month timeline,” he said.

The Managing Director of Fabmon Ltd, Mr. Simon Mork, reaffirmed the contractor’s commitment to meeting the University’s expectations. “We promise to deliver on time and adhere to the contract specifications. We are always open to feedback to ensure a successful outcome,” he said.
The Director of Works and Physical Development at GCTU highlighted the meticulous preparations that have gone into the project, including site clearances and integration plans to link the new structure to the existing Graduate School block.

The project is being funded by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) and is part of ongoing efforts to enhance GCTU’s infrastructure to support its mission of delivering quality education.
Key university officials, including the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo, joined Prof. Afoakwa for the event. Representatives from Zim Multi-Consult Ltd, the project consultant, and Fabmon Ltd, the contractor, were also present to witness the ceremony.

A group picture of all attendees at the ceremony

Issued by University Relations Directorate
Thursday December 5, 2024