Winneba (C/R) Oct. 17 GNA - The University of Education, Winneba, (UEW) has opened five new Distance Learning Centres at Sogokope, Obuasi, Techiman, Assin Foso and Tarkwa to enhance the programme.

This brings to 18 the number of study centres opened by the university nation wide.

They are at Tamale, Wa, Navrongo, Dambai, Winneba, Hohoe, Kumasi, Koforidua, Enchi, Bechem, Cape Coast, Atebubu and Accra.

Professor Akwasi Asabere-Ameyaw, Vice-Chancellor of the UEW, said this at the congregation of 4,187 students at Winneba at the weekend.

One person received a Doctor of Philosophy Degree, 292 got Master's Degrees, 2,413 had Bachelor Degrees while 338 had certificates and diplomas.

Prof. Asabere-Ameyaw said the Centre also intends to open new Centres for distance learning programmes at Axim, Nkawkaw, Tema, Konongo-Odumasi, Somanya, Sefwi-Wiaso, Drobo/Domaa-Ahenkro, Asante-Mampong and two additional centres in Accra and Kumasi.

The VC said plans are also far advanced to commence postgraduate programmes in English, Science and Mathematics by distance and also start an undergraduate course in Business Studies.

According to him, the university has acquired land to build model study centre for distance learning.

Prof. Asabere-Ameyaw said the University has forged very tight linkages with 17 institutions in the country and abroad.

The chancellor of the University, Alhaji (Dr) Asoma Banda, said education is the surest way of reducing poverty and sustaining growth and development of the nation.

He congratulated the graduates on their successfully completion of their courses and programmes of study and urged them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in solving problems of their family, school and community.