Takoradi, June 14-GNA-The Takoradi Polytechnic would continue to work to strengthen linkages with industries including those in textiles production in order to produce graduates who would be able to function in specific areas particularly in the textiles industry. Dr. Samuel Obeng Apori, Rector of the Polytechnic said this at the first matriculation ceremony of 34 degree students of the School of Applied Arts of the Polytechnic on Friday.

The matriculants, made up of 20 women and 14 men were the pioneering group of the School's Bachelor of Technology Programmes. The objective of the programmes, Dr. Apori said was not only to equip students with knowledge and requisite skills but also to inculcate in them the attitude towards hard work and excellent performance. The rationale for the school to introduce a Bachelor of Technology Programme in Textiles was mooted through the joint efforts of the Polytechnic community and representatives from industry, he said. This, he said led to the development of seven curricula, out of which three, including textiles, tourism and hospitality have been accredited.

Dr. Apori said much resource was involved in the training of students and only hardworking ones would be awarded, adding, "degrees would not be offered on silver platter". He advised matriculants to apply themselves seriously to their studies in order to pass out successfully.

Dr. Apori said Takoradi Polytechnic was repositioning its financial, human and physical resources to effectively carry out its mandate to provide technical and vocational education at the tertiary level and thanked the Polytechnic Council for its support and encouragement. Professor Daniel Mireku Gyimah, Chairman of Takoradi Polytechnic Council said the Council would continue to work to enhance teaching and learning at the school. He advised teachers and students to work hard to ensure discipline and improve academic work.

Mr. Jones Addai-Marfo, the Registrar administered the matriculation oath.