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In a landmark event signaling a new era for private higher education in Ghana, the Private Universities Founders Association (PUFA-GH) held its 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 22nd May 2025.
The meeting took place at the Association’s Secretariat, hosted by Wisconsin International University College, North Legon.
Formally established in February 2023, PUFA-GH’s first AGM marked two years of consolidation and strategic positioning.
The gathering served as a platform to review progress, renew leadership mandates, and set a new course for advocacy and collaboration in Ghana’s tertiary education sector.
Leadership Mandates Renewed; Transition in Key Role
In a display of unity and confidence, members unanimously voted to extend the mandate of the current Executive Committee into a second term.
The Executives, having served one renewable two-year term, were commended for their diplomatic leadership and dedication.
However, Dr. Ernest Ansah, Founder of Datalink University College and Secretary-General, stepped down on health grounds.
His impactful tenure was honoured by members. In his place, Prof. Martin K. Gyambrah, Founder of the University of Applied Sciences, was unanimously appointed as the new Secretary-General.
Advocacy, Dialogue & Strategic Engagements
Since its inception, PUFA-GH has actively shaped national discourse on private tertiary education. Key milestones include:
• A pivotal engagement with former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, on the Presidential Charter framework.
• Advocacy with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education for increased support to private universities, focusing on infrastructure, student loans, and policy parity.
• A high-level March 2025 meeting at the Ministry of Education hosted by Hon. Haruna Iddrisu (Minister), Hon. Dr. Clement Abas Apaak (Deputy Minister), and GTEC officials.
Commitments made during this session are expected to materialise by end of 2025.
These engagements highlight PUFA-GH’s rising influence and the growing recognition of private universities in national development.
Executive Committee Expanded with Distinguished Leaders
In a forward-looking decision, the AGM approved an expansion of the Executive Committee from seven to eleven members, reflecting a broader and more inclusive leadership approach.
Newly inducted members:
• Prof. Martin K. Gyambrah – University of Applied Sciences
• Dr. Nana K. Owusu-Kwateng – Garden City University
• Dr. Tetteh Nettey – Marshalls University College
• Mr. John Kwamena Essel – Knutsford University
They join the existing team:
• Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Kingsley Larbi – Regent University College
• Prof. (Med) Afua Hesse – Accra College of Medicine
• Mad. Joyce Ababio – JACCD Design Institute Africa
• Dr. Ernest Ansah – Datalink University College
• Mr. Philip Glah – Legal Advisor
• Dr. Dee Otibu-Asare – Public Relations Officer
• Justice (Rtd.) I. D. Duose – Legal Advisor
The induction was officiated by the Chairman, Dr. Paul Kofi Fynn, Founder of Wisconsin University College.
Charting a Future of Purpose and Influence
As PUFA-GH embarks on its next chapter, it remains grounded in collaboration, policy advocacy, and educational excellence.
The re-energised leadership is poised to further elevate private universities as co-equal partners in shaping Ghana’s educational and national future.
With a clear agenda and renewed momentum, PUFA-GH is ready to deliver breakthroughs, secure meaningful recognition, and drive real transformation across the private tertiary landscape.
Ghana l Atinkaonline.com