Prof. John Ofosu‑Anim, Vice‑Chancellor of Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG), addressed 720 newly admitted postgraduate students during the university’s matriculation ceremony held in three phases from 9 to 24 October 2026 at the Akuapem and Asante Akyem Agogo campuses. He warned that the friendships and networks students form on campus will largely determine their academic outcomes.
Speaking at the ceremony, the VC noted that the university environment offers freedom and a wide range of choices, and that many students lose focus not because of lack of ability but because they associate with peers who negatively influence their values, discipline and academic commitment. He emphasised that PUG will not compromise on discipline and that the institution’s motto, “Discipline in Leadership,” must be reflected in every student’s conduct.
Prof. Ofosu‑Anim highlighted the university’s commitment to producing graduates who are academically excellent, morally upright and ready to contribute to national development. He urged the new cohort to use their large numbers as an opportunity for collaboration, peer support and knowledge sharing rather than isolation, noting that academic networking is key to success at the postgraduate level.
The VC also explained that the Master of Public Health (MPH) programme, now the largest cohort with 385 students, was introduced to build human capacity in public health following the global shortage exposed by the COVID‑19 pandemic. He praised the programme’s practical training and its location in the semi‑rural Asante Akyem Agogo campus, which allows students to engage directly with communities, diagnose health problems and design interventions.
Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Nana Osei Akomeah Prince, added that the MPH programme has trained about 600 students in the last five years, with graduates serving in key health sector roles across the Ministry of Health, NGOs, health directorates and consultancy services. He expressed confidence that the continued growth in enrolment reflects the quality and relevance of the training.
Prof. Ofosu‑Anim closed his address by urging students to uphold hard work, integrity and faith in God, in line with Presbyterian values, and to remember that their conduct will shape the future leaders the university seeks to produce.
As the new cohort embarks on their postgraduate journeys, the university’s focus on discipline, collaboration and practical application of knowledge will be crucial in turning academic potential into tangible national impact.
