Public Universities to be renamed – Haruna Iddrisu

By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi

Ghana’s Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced plans to reverse the renaming of certain public universities that occurred under the previous Akuffo Addo led administration. The minister indicated that a bill would be introduced in Parliament to effect these changes, aiming to restore the historical identities of the affected institutions.

During the tenure of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, several public universities in Ghana underwent name changes to honor prominent national figures. Notable among these were; University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) renamed to Kofi Abrefa Busia University of Energy and Natural Resources, University of Education, Winneba (UEW) renamed to Akomfo Anokye University of Education and University for Development Studies (UDS) renamed to J. A. Kufuor University for Development Studies.  These changes were met with mixed reactions. While some viewed them as appropriate honors for distinguished individuals, others criticized the moves as politically motivated and lacking in broad stakeholder consultation.

Mr. Iddrisu emphasized the importance of preserving the neutrality and historical significance of educational institutions. He argued that universities should not be subject to political influences that may alter their foundational identities. “Our universities are centers of learning and should reflect the collective heritage and aspirations of the nation, not the political inclinations of any particular administration,” he stated. “Restoring their original names is a step towards depoliticizing our educational institutions.”

The proposed bill will undergo the standard legislative process in Parliament, which includes readings, debates, and potential amendments. Stakeholder consultations are expected to be a significant part of this process, involving university councils, alumni associations, and other relevant bodies. As the bill progresses through Parliament, it will be essential to monitor the debates and stakeholder engagements that will shape its final form. The outcome will have lasting implications for the governance and identity of public universities in Ghana.