General News of Friday, 7 December 2007

Source: GNA

Incorporate ethical standards into tertiary curriculum - Fobih

Tema, Dec. 07, GNA -- Professor Dominic Fobih, Minister of Education, Science and Sports has recommended to academic boards of universities in the country to incorporate ethical standards into their curriculum. Prof. Fobih said the inclusion of such standards into tertiary education would provide the country a strong responsible human resource capital which would facilitate the socio-economic development of the nation.

He gave the recommendation in a speech read on his behalf by, Nana Yaa Osei-Brimpong, Director of Tertiary Education and Bilateral Relations at the second matriculation ceremony of the Data Link University College at Tema on Thursday.

A total of 572 fresh students were matriculated out of which 304 are men and 268 ladies. He stated that students, especially those offering Computer Science and Information Technology needed ethical training to help curb the global threat of electronic fraud and computer hacking.

Prof. Fobih said government has shifted from being a sole provider of education to an enabler of good environment for quality education as it was a responsibility of all stakeholders.

He said the facilitation from government has accounted for the phenomenal growth of private universities in the country to provide requisite knowledge, skills and values to students. While commending the administration of Data Link for their achievements, he advised the matriculants to recognize and utilize their opportunities at the College to improve themselves rather than engaging in unproductive activities.

Dr. Seth Laryea, President of Valley View University who was the Guest Speaker also entreated the matriculants to use their time at the College to develop a healthy self-concept both physically and psychologically. Dr. Laryea further encouraged them to seek positive ways of becoming more realistic in their self perceptions, being confident, having positive values of themselves and maturity.

He said achieving these goals in addition to the academic excellence would maximize their university experience.

Mr Ernest Ansah, President of Data Link said the University College was the only university in the country with accreditation from the National Accreditation Board to offer both Computer Science and Information Systems as a combine major.

Mr Ansah further said within eight months of gaining accreditation, the computer science students have developed six software packages including Data Link School pro, Data Link Locker, Data Link BECE Prep and Data Link Staff Evaluator.

He stated that the University College would from January 2008 offer both bachelor and masters degree programmes in business administration, international business and information systems. He said they are planning to introduce a weekend college for both degree and diploma programmes in addition to its evening college. Pleading with stakeholders of education to help the College attain its aim, the President said even though it lacks financial support, Data Link has provided 56 students with scholarship.