Universities should focus on churning out impactful graduates rather than merely adding new programmes - UEW VC

Prof Stephen Jobson Mitchual, Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), called on Ghanaian universities to prioritise innovation and the production of impactful graduates rather than continuously expanding academic programmes on Friday, April 2026 10, during the UEW Public Lecture Series. He stressed the need for a fundamental rethink of higher education in response to national development challenges and rising graduate unemployment.

Prof. Mitchual said that "The University of Education continues to play a unique role in Ghana's educational landscape." He explained that the public lecture series was established to create a platform where academia, policymakers, industry and the general public can engage in critical reflection on national issues. This year's theme was Empowering Minds, Rethinking Education for Sustainable Development. Prof. Mitchual warned that universities risk becoming disconnected from national needs if they continue to expand programmes without assessing outcomes. He stated, "I have always said that our educational institutions should not adapt to the programmes that we already have." He argued that rather than continually adding new academic programmes, universities must refocus their approach to teaching, learning and innovation.

Prof. Mitchual emphasized that education extends beyond academic attainment, describing it as a tool for shaping critical thinkers and responsible citizens. He noted, "Education is not only about academic sources. It is about shaping minds that can think critically, solve problems, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to society." He stressed that Ghana's development trajectory depends heavily on the quality of education and the calibre of graduates produced by its universities. He reaffirmed UEW's commitment to national development, stating that the institution remains focused on training educators and advancing knowledge to support transformation in the education sector and beyond.