Mr. Lee Ocran, Minister of Education, on Friday took a swipe at critics of the Government saying the positive changes the country is experiencing is obvious for all to see.

He said: “Ghana is transiting from agric-based economy to an industrial one,” stressing that various sectors of the economy have been impacted by the Better Ghana Agenda.”

Mr. Ocran was speaking at the investiture of Dr Sylvester Achio, newly appointed Rector of Accra Polytechnic.

He pledged government’s continuous support to polytechnic institutions through the provision of infrastructure and human resources.

“The success of industrialization depends generally on the availability of a technical workforce that is adequately equipped with practical skills,” he said.

Mr. Ocran expressed confidence in Dr Achio’s ability to respond to the challenges ahead of him.

Professor Joshua Alabi, Chairman of Accra Polytechnic Council, gave the assurance that it would give its unflinching support to Dr Achio.

Dr Achio expressed optimism in a five-pronged strategic plan to be rolled out to transform the institution into a “Centre of Excellence”.

He said the plan included a strong culture of hands-on competency-based teaching and learning, technology with credible and on time certification; strengthening the curricula, library and research facilities to help address industrial and community challenges and training, and collaborative opportunities with industry, institutions and private entities.

Others include a roll out of business and entrepreneurial activities to generate adequate income and engender the spirit of job creation in staff and students and to develop Information Technology system to facilitate research and various activities including library, management, administrative and general academic activities.

Dr Achio said “These steps will be facilitated through the strengthening of activities of specified centres, to be manned by capable staff. These include: Research, Business, Entrepreneurial and Marketing, Teaching and Learning, Guidance, Counseling and Grievance.

“This plan for change demands that all staff exhibit high quality performance output in all activities.”

Dr Achio said there was the need to adequately disseminate information, instill a culture of proper documentation, strengthen partnership with the community and stakeholders, and build a culture of maintenance of the environment, economics and equity.**