Ing Samuel Avaala Awonnea, Chairman of the Council at Regentropfen University College (formerly Regentropfen College of Applied Science), has called for a value-based approach to tertiary education in Ghana. He emphasized that for Ghana to thrive in education, universities must embrace a fast-paced, interconnected world by adopting an entrepreneurial mindset that focuses on value creation, innovation, and sustainability. This framework, which he terms the “Value-Based Approach,” is crucial for preparing students for the job market.
Speaking at the 7th Congregation and 9th Matriculation of the college under the theme “Running a University as an Enterprise: The Value-Based Approach to Tertiary Education,” Ing Samuel Avaala highlighted the transformative journey Regentropfen University College has embarked upon. He stated, “We recognize that our role extends beyond mere knowledge transmission; we must foster a culture of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.”
Ing Avaala outlined the core components of the university’s value-based approach, built on three pillars:
1. Academic Excellence: Commitment to delivering high-quality programs, research, and student experiences.
2. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Encouragement of interdisciplinary collaboration, incubation of start-ups, and industry partnerships to drive innovation and sustainability.
3. Social Responsibility:Prioritizing environmental sustainability, social inclusivity, and community engagement.
He stressed that by embracing this value-based approach, the university aims to enhance student employability and career prospects, foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, strengthen industry partnerships, and contribute to national development and societal impact.
Ing Avaala noted the need for universities to adapt to the complexities of the 21st-century knowledge economy. He remarked that the traditional model of higher education, which focuses solely on academic excellence, is no longer sufficient. “Running a university like Regentropfen as an enterprise requires a bold, forward-thinking approach,” he said, emphasizing that embracing a value-based model could unlock new opportunities and drive growth.
Dr. Yazeed Abdul-Mumin, addressing the students on behalf of the Vice Chancellor of the University for Development Studies (UDS), noted that one might expect the college to be situated in a location conducive to profit-making. However, he praised the founder for prioritizing human development in the college’s location. He highlighted UDS’s keen interest in the college’s progress, which has achieved notable growth in expansion and impact despite challenges.
He commended the university college for establishing international collaborations and encouraged further efforts in this regard. “The strive of our university college to ensure academic discipline and provide high-quality education in the best possible environment makes UDS proud as a mentor university,” he said.
Dr. Abdul-Mumin also expressed UDS’s commitment to supporting the university college in introducing health science programs and new undergraduate and graduate programs, aiming to cultivate well-trained students who can contribute meaningfully to national growth and development.