The School of Graduate Studies and Research (SGSR) of GCTU has hosted a one-day orientation programme for its newly admitted postgraduate students (Masters and PhD) on January 22, 2026, at the Florence Onny Auditorium.
The programme, which was organized in both in-person and virtual formats, aimed at providing essential information to ensure a smooth transition into postgraduate life while fostering strong academic and social integration among students, faculty and staff.
Speaking at the event, the Dean of SGSR and Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebenezer Malcalm, on behalf of Management, extended warm congratulations to the new students on their admission, describing it as a significant milestone in their academic journey. He emphasized that GCTU is mandated to run ICT-focused programmes and continues to offer cutting-edge, industry-relevant courses. Prof. Malcalm highlighted the University’s state-of-the-art library facilities and encouraged students to take full advantage of these resources to support their studies and research. He further commended GCTU’s experienced and accomplished lecturers, noting that they are industry practitioners who teach from real-world experience. He urged students to familiarize themselves with the University’s policies, regulations and rules, and to remain focused on achieving academic excellence.
In his remarks, the Vice-Dean of SGSR, Prof. Frank Gyimah Sackey, stated that GCTU aspires to be a leading university that fosters scholarship, innovation and entrepreneurship while producing high-calibre graduates and staff for global impact. He added that the University is committed to providing a conducive environment for quality teaching and learning, research, intellectual creativity, innovation and community service. Prof. Gyimah Sackey encouraged students to study diligently, adhere strictly to deadlines and regularly read official notices and emails.
The Head of Administration at SGSR, Dr. Mark Ofori Nketia, also congratulated the students and encouraged them to visit the appropriate offices whenever challenges arise, stressing the University’s open-door policy. He shared important information on tuition and account management, emphasizing the requirement for at least 60% payment of fees. Dr. Nketia further announced that a special online orientation would be organized to guide students on accessing and using GCTU’s digital library, which hosts a wide range of articles, journals and e-books to support research.
The Coordinator of Doctoral Programmes, Dr. Esther Asiedu, congratulated the PhD students on their admission and noted that GCTU places high value on its doctoral candidates. “The PhD you are embarking upon is a journey of research, innovation and impact. Your work must demonstrate value and relevance,” she remarked. She added that the students had joined a community of scholars committed to advancing knowledge, driving innovation for national development and producing cutting-edge research. Dr. Asiedu encouraged the students to uphold academic excellence and integrity. She also delivered a presentation on behalf of the Head of the Department of Management, Prof. Theresa Obuobisa-Darko.
The Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Information Systems (FOCIS), Dr. Leslie William Brown-Acquaye, described GCTU as one family united by the goal of advancing knowledge in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly in ICT. He noted that the University’s programmes are well-developed and fully accredited to support this agenda. “Whatever your goals are, we as a faculty stand ready to support you in achieving them,” he assured the students.
Representing the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Dr. Ruhiya Abubakar, the Head of the Department of Telecom Engineering, Dr. Daniel K. Ngala, began his presentation with an inspirational quote by Victor Hugo: “He who opens a school door, closes a prison.” He outlined the course structure, assessment methods and grading system, emphasizing their importance to student success. Dr. Ngala encouraged students to approach their studies with confidence and focus, noting that the programme is designed to equip them with strong analytical skills for the telecommunications and engineering sectors, thereby enhancing employability and business insight.
Speaking on behalf of the Dean of GCTU Business School, Prof. George Oppong Ampong, the Head of the Department of Marketing, Prof. Emelia Amoako Asiedu, briefed students on the various programmes offered by the School’s Departments. She assured students of the faculty’s readiness to support them, stating, “We are here to support you and every Head of Department is ready to assist – just knock.” She further advised working students to make adequate time for their studies, assuring them of quality tuition.
The Head of the Systems Software Unit, Mr. Adam Shaibu, guided students through the process of registering and accessing the student portal.
The President of the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG), Mr. Andrew Abbey, also addressed the gathering briefly, assuring students of his office’s continued guidance and support.
The question-and-answer session was effectively moderated by the Head of the Department of Computer Science, Dr. Emmanuel Freeman.
