The Vice-Chancellor of GCTU, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, has charged staff to position themselves to seize emerging opportunities as the tertiary education sector continues to transform, emphasizing that it is time to push harder, innovate and expand the University’s reach.
Prof. Afoakwa made the remarks during his address at the University’s Fourth Annual Staff Durbar, held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
The event, which brought together all categories of staff, served as a platform for the Vice-Chancellor to share his vision for the University in 2026 and beyond.
“Today’s Staff Durbar is not just about resumption; it is about direction. It is about aligning our collective efforts with where GCTU is headed in 2026 and beyond,” Prof. Afoakwa remarked.
According to him, GCTU’s growing enrolment numbers reflect the trust students, parents, industry and the general public have in the University and underscore the dedication, professionalism and hard work of staff.
“For GCTU, this is not a moment to relax; it is a moment to double our efforts, strengthen our competitive edge and strategically capture even greater numbers. 2026 is therefore a year to scale up, not slow down,” he emphasized.
Prof. Afoakwa further noted that years of building strong foundations in governance, systems, programmes, visibility and partnerships have set the stage for focused execution, consolidation and the delivery of impactful results in the coming year.
He outlined the University’s strategic priorities for 2026, highlighting the following key areas:
- Academic excellence and relevance: Ensuring programmes meet industry needs through high teaching quality, curriculum relevance and academic integrity to produce competent, innovative and globally competitive graduates.
- Student growth, retention and experience: Prioritizing student support, engagement and overall experience rather than focusing solely on increasing enrolment numbers.
- Research, innovation and industry collaboration: Driving applied research, innovation and industry partnerships to address real-world challenges and position GCTU as a solutions-driven institution.
- Operational efficiency and digital transformation: Enhancing efficiency through improved processes, adoption of digital tools and the consistent delivery of quality services.
- Brand visibility and institutional reputation: Reinforcing professionalism at all levels, recognizing that every staff action impacts GCTU’s image locally and globally.
- Infrastructure development: Ongoing projects include an eight-storey academic facility scheduled for completion by February 2026, a six-storey facility expected by April 2026, and the commencement of two additional major projects, including a hostel project under a Public-Private Arrangement (PPA) and potential support from GETFund.
Emphasizing the ongoing staff rotation exercise, Prof. Afoakwa stressed that infrastructure alone does not build a great university – people do. He underscored the importance of capacity building and institutional support to enhance staff effectiveness.
He added that the University’s Business Executive Committee (BEC), which meets at least twice a year to guide strategy and assess performance, has made significant progress and should continue to build on those gains.
Prof. Afoakwa also used the occasion to express his profound appreciation to Management, staff and the entire University community for their dedication, professionalism and hard work.
“With your continued commitment, I am confident that 2026 will be a defining year in the history of GCTU – a year when we expand boldly, deliver strategically and elevate our impact,” he stated.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Registrar, Mr. Emanuel Baidoo, warmly welcomed staff to the 2026 Staff Durbar. He noted that it is a long-standing tradition at GCTU for the Vice-Chancellor to share his vision with staff at the beginning of each calendar year.
“In line with this tradition, today’s Staff Durbar has been convened to receive the Vice-Chancellor’s vision for 2026. It is worth noting that staff durbars play a crucial role in advancing the vision and mission of the University,” he said.
Mr. Baidoo also acknowledged staff who retired in 2025, as well as the upcoming Best Worker Awards.
Staff members who retired in 2025 and were honoured for their dedicated service to the University included:
- Prof. Barimah Kofi Bobi Barimah, former staff member of the Department of Management Studies and Director of Research, Innovation, and Consultancy
- Ing. Isaac Hanson (deceased), former Head of the Department of Telecommunication Engineering
- Mrs. Agness Kyerewaa Quarshie, former Head of the Appointments and Promotions Department, DHROD
- Dr. Emmanuel Hasford, former Lecturer in the Department of Management Studies and Coordinator of the Kumasi Learning Centre
- Mr. Martin Ocloo, former Chief Administrative Assistant, Kumasi Learning Centre
The Director of Human Resource and Organizational Development (HROD), Dr. Emmanuel Adjepong, expertly moderated the event.
