The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has organised an orientation programme for its newly admitted undergraduate and postgraduate students for the 2024/2025 Sandwich Academic Year to welcome them into the academic community, introduce them to the university’s values, and prepare them for both academic and personal success.
The event, which took place on Tuesday 26th August, 2025, brought together faculty members, administrators, and resource persons, who addressed the new students on expectations, available resources, ethical conduct, and opportunities for growth during their stay at UCC.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of Human Resource, Mr. Isaac Adom Konadu, who represented the Registrar and also chaired the programme, congratulated the fresh students on their admission. He described their enrolment as a milestone that marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities, challenges, and the pursuit of knowledge.
“You are joining a community that is committed to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development,” Mr. Konadu said. “Our faculty, staff, and administration are here to support you to ensure that your experience at the University of Cape Coast is both enriching and rewarding.”
He encouraged the students to take advantage of the diversity of experiences the university offers, including academic exploration, personal development, and creative innovation. He further urged them to embrace relationships with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and to collaborate fruitfully in ways that would enhance their learning experience.
Participation and Personal Growth
Highlighting the wide range of resources available to students, Mr. Konadu mentioned academic advisors, counsellors, and support staff who are ready to provide guidance. He advised the students to participate actively in extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports, student organisations, and community service, noting that these activities would help them build leadership and teamwork skills as well as lifelong friendships.
According to him, such involvement not only fosters leadership and teamwork skills but also helps build friendships and professional networks that can last a lifetime.
He further highlighted the support systems available to students, including academic advisors, counsellors, and support staff who are committed to guiding them through their academic journey.
Read Also: Dr. Kenneth Aikins Advocates Constitutional Reforms to Protect Parliamentary Integrity
On behaviour, he appealed to the new entrants to uphold the highest standards of academic honesty and ethical conduct, stressing values such as respect, fairness, and integrity. “Your time here will be what you make of it,” he added, “so I encourage you to be curious, take initiative, and make the most of the opportunities that come your way.”
Call to Discipline
The Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Daniel Apaak, also addressed the gathering. He urged the students to exhibit good behaviour, abide by the rules and regulations of the university, and serve as worthy ambassadors of UCC. Prof. Apaak cautioned the students against all forms of anti-social behaviour and academic malpractice, stressing that misconduct could have dire consequences for their academic journeys.
Similarly, the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Prof. (Mrs.) Sarah Darkwa, emphasised the importance of academic discipline. She warned that poor performance and misconduct would not be tolerated and could result in sanctions such as rustication, withdrawal, or dismissal. Her remarks underscored the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic and ethical standards.
Raising Awareness on Social Issues
As part of the programme, Dr. (Mrs.) Yvonne Ami Adjakloe, Coordinator (Advocacy) at the Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD), delivered a presentation on gender and social issues. She sensitised the students on cyber harassment, gender stereotyping, substance abuse, sexual harassment, coercion, and rape, urging them to desist from such behaviours.
She called on the students to uphold respect and inclusivity in their interactions and to contribute to a safe and supportive learning environment. According to her, building a culture of respect and responsibility was essential not only for individual growth but also for sustaining UCC’s reputation as a leading centre of higher learning.
Building the Future Together
The orientation programme forms part of the university’s tradition of welcoming new students and equipping them with the knowledge, values, and tools needed to thrive in their academic pursuits. It also provides a platform for administrators to set expectations and for students to familiarise themselves with the university’s culture of discipline, excellence, and integrity.
By the end of the programme, students had not only been introduced to the academic and social resources available to them but also challenged to uphold the values of UCC, embrace diversity, and make the most of their time at the university.
The event reaffirmed the University of Cape Coast’s commitment to providing holistic education that prepares students not only for academic success but also for leadership and responsible citizenship in society.
Source: Eric Arthur/MPC24/ATLFMNEWS
