Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Warns University Councils Against Management Interference and Announces Policy Reforms

Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has issued a stern warning to the governing councils of public universities, cautioning them against encroaching on the day-to-day administrative functions of university management. Speaking during the commissioning of a new 200-bed hostel at the Wisconsin International University College in the Ashanti Region, the Minister emphasized that such interference is detrimental to institutional performance and effective governance. He underscored that the government would not support any council actions that undermine the established roles of university management, calling instead for a collegiate atmosphere focused on institutional growth.

The Minister’s address highlighted the necessity of a clear separation of powers within higher education institutions. According to Iddrisu, while governing councils play a vital role in setting strategic direction and policy, their direct involvement in daily operations creates unnecessary friction and hinders academic progress. He advocated for a collaborative and respectful relationship between councils and management, urging all parties to respect institutional autonomy. This push for governance reform is intended to ensure that universities function effectively and focus on their core mandate of academic excellence without the distractions of internal power struggles.

In a significant policy announcement during the same event, Minister Iddrisu revealed that the government has amended the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020. This amendment is set to grant private universities formal representation on the governing board of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC). The Minister noted that this move recognizes the indispensable role private institutions play in expanding access to higher education for students who may not find placement in public universities. By including private sector voices in the regulatory framework, the government aims to create a more inclusive, balanced, and representative educational landscape.

Beyond governance and representation, the Minister challenged all tertiary institutions to prioritize the quality and relevance of their academic offerings. He stressed the importance of aligning curricula with the evolving needs of the global workforce, specifically mentioning the need to equip students with skills in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). By focusing on academic productivity and modern technology, the Minister concluded, Ghana’s universities can better contribute to the nation’s socio-economic development and ensure graduates are prepared for the challenges of a competitive international market.