The Chancellor of Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG), Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Opare Kwakye, has called on the University community to strengthen values-driven education, uphold academic standards and prepare graduates to respond responsibly to the changing demands of society.
Speaking at the University’s 20th Congregation Ceremony held at the Nkwatia Durbar Grounds on November 6, 2026, the Chancellor, who doubles as the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), described the occasion as both a celebration of achievement and an opportunity to renew the institution’s commitment to academic credibility, spiritual grounding and social responsibility.
The Right Reverend reflected on the PCG’s longstanding contribution to education and national development, and reaffirmed the importance of the Church’s holistic educational philosophy of developing the Head, Heart and Hand.
He said “Education must nurture intellectual ability, moral character and practical competence, preparing people not only for employment but also for responsible living and service to the common good”. He noted that values such as honesty, discipline, hard work, modesty, respect, compassion and selflessness must remain central to the educational experience.
The Chancellor therefore commended the PUG’s emphasis on Christian formation through mandatory courses in Christian Ethics and Presbyterian Heritage, as well as Midweek and Family Services that support the spiritual life of the University community.
Again, he welcomed the University’s continued growth in student admissions and its expanding academic portfolio. Among the programmes introduced and commenced are M.Sc. Cyber Security; MBA Human Resource Management and Development; M.Sc. Organisational Leadership and Management; M.Sc. Strategic Management and Corporate Strategy; M.Sc. Project Planning and Management; M.A. Guidance and Counselling; M.Sc. Nursing; M.Phil. Nursing; M.Sc. Emergency and Disaster Management; and M.Sc. Church Management and Administration.
The Chancellor of PUG, Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye, exchanges a handshake with graduands.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Kwakye, while welcoming the expansion, emphasised that institutional progress should be measured not simply by the number of programmes offered, but by their quality, relevance and capacity to prepare graduates to make a meaningful difference.
In addition, he expressed concerned on issues of the application of minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) thresholds and the withdrawal of students who fail to meet prescribed academic requirements. He encouraged early identification of academic difficulties, accessible advising and mentoring, effective counselling and transparent communication of academic regulations. He further urged the University to consider appropriate pathways for students to return, retrain or pursue alternative options where regulations permit.
On Artificial Intelligence, the Chancellor urged PUG not to ignore or fear emerging technologies, but to engage them responsibly. He called for clear guidance on acceptable use, training for Lecturers and Students, and assessment methods that evaluate understanding, reasoning and practical application. He underscored that technological advancement must not weaken the University’s commitment to originality, honesty and academic integrity.
Turning to graduate employability, he called for stronger links between Academic programmes and the world of work through internships, industry partnerships, entrepreneurship training, practical projects, research and community engagement. He encouraged Alumni and Corporate Partners to support students through placements, mentorship and opportunities for industry exposure. Graduates, he said, must be equipped not only to seek jobs but also to create opportunities, solve problems and serve their communities.
The Chancellor commended the Vice-Chancellor, Management, Faculty, Administrative and Technical Staff for their contribution to the University’s mission. He also expressed gratitude to parents, guardians, sponsors and families for the sacrifices and support that had enabled the graduands to complete their studies.
The Chancellor of PUG, Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye, with other dignitaries
In his charge to the graduands, Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye urged them to be guided by the University’s core values and to remain connected to their alma mater by mentoring future students, sharing their experiences and contributing to the University’s development through their expertise, partnerships, advocacy and support.
The Chancellor concluded by urging the University community to continue building an institution that is academically credible, spiritually grounded and socially responsive, and that remains committed to forming principled leaders who can transform society.