The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has formally inducted Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto as its 12th Vice-Chancellor. He is charged with repositioning the institution as a hub for practical and skills-based learning to produce competent graduates.
This strategic shift aims to address the disruptive impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on traditional education models. Sir Sam Eson Jonah, the Chancellor of the University, emphasized that degrees based solely on theoretical knowledge are no longer sustainable. The goal is to ensure graduates possess proven competence in practical applications.
This initiative aligns with broader national and global trends emphasizing vocational training and practical skills development. Ghana's economic growth increasingly relies on a skilled workforce capable of innovation and problem-solving. This move by UCC could set a precedent for other Ghanaian universities to adapt their curricula to meet evolving industry demands.
Sir Sam Eson Jonah proposed that UCC become the first African university to offer a full faculty of degree-awarding vocational education. These would include Bachelor and Master degrees in Applied Skills, combining academic rigor with practical workshop experience. He suggested degrees like a Bachelor of Applied Skills in Renewable Energy Systems, where students would install and maintain working solar installations to graduate.
Professor Aheto succeeds Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong, whose tenure ended on September 18, 2025. Professor Aheto acted in the Vice-Chancellor position for 10 months and served as Pro Vice-Chancellor for 19 months before his formal induction. His appointment was confirmed by the University’s Governing Council in May.
The Chancellor stressed that in a world where machines can reproduce knowledge faster than humans, degrees are only useful if graduates can perform tasks machines cannot. He cited Germany’s dual vocational training system and China’s university program overhauls as examples of successful skills-based education models. Sir Jonah urged UCC to break the wall between academia and the workshop, ensuring every program answers the question, "What can your graduate do?"
He advocated for placing a lecturer of practice, such as a master welder or nurse, alongside every professor of theory. This approach would ensure students gain hands-on experience directly relevant to their fields. Occupations like construction, electrical installation, plumbing, and healthcare will become more valuable as they depend on human capabilities beyond technology.
Sir Jonah also urged Ghana and Africa to adopt AI as a collaborator for development, not just a disruption. He noted that leading global universities like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard are already integrating AI across all disciplines. To kickstart the transformation, he proposed establishing a student AI club to build real things and solve problems.
He also called for structured mentorship from Ghana’s and Africa’s diaspora, connecting students with AI experts abroad. This would provide guidance, inspire innovation, and expose students to global standards. Introducing a project-based curriculum requiring students to acquire specific skills for tangible projects was another key suggestion.
The Chancellor expressed confidence in Professor Aheto’s ability to drive these reforms, noting his track record of mobilizing over GHS 30 million for the university. Professor Aheto has also funded more than 400 scholarships and trained over 50 PhDs. He has grown a national center into an Africa Centre of Excellence.
Professor Aheto accepted the challenge, pledging innovation, creativity, and dedication to his new role. He unveiled a four-year agenda focusing on digital innovation, research excellence, infrastructure expansion, and sustainable financing. His vision is to foster a transformative, inclusive, and diverse academic environment that empowers excellence in research, teaching, learning, and outreach.
He announced plans to establish a College of Engineering and Built Environment. New academic programs in AI, Cybersecurity, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry, Architecture, and Special Languages will also be introduced. These programs aim to meet emerging national and global demands, further solidifying UCC's commitment to practical, relevant education.