UEW Vice-Chancellor Presents State of the University Report
Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), reiterated Management’s commitment to transparency, teamwork and shared responsibility as the driving forces behind the University’s progress.
Addressing junior and senior staff at the School of Creative Arts Theatre on Thursday, 25th September 2025, Prof. Mitchual presented a detailed report on the state of the University, outlining key achievements, ongoing projects and urgent challenges.
The meeting, which brought together Management members including Mrs. Wilhelmina Tete-Mensah, Acting Registrar; Prof. Rebecca Akpanglo-Nartey, Principal of the College of Languages Education, Mrs. Ekua Abedi-Boafo, Incoming Registrar; and Dr. Theophilus Senyo Ackorlie, Finance Officer, offered an interactive platform for staff to ask questions, suggest ideas, and contribute to the University’s advancement.
Prof. Mitchual explained that the statutory requirement to brief Convocation at least twice annually is more than just a formality. “Beyond statutory requirements, it is simply good practice because the development of the University rests with all of us—not only the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar or principal officers but every staff member, from junior to senior,” he emphasised. He added that it would represent leadership failure if those entrusted with responsibilities did not periodically report on progress.
Highlighting the importance of vigilance and teamwork, Prof. Mitchual recounted an incident where non-functioning lights at one of the University’s gates initially seemed like a technical issue but turned out to be an administrative matter. “This is why vigilance, contribution and teamwork are essential to moving the University forward,” he noted, stressing that information gaps often lead to unnecessary gossip and misunderstandings which could be prevented with proper communication.
Prof. Mitchual revealed that the University currently has about 61,000 students spread across two campuses, five schools, seven faculties, two institutes and two colleges. While regular student enrolment remains steady, distance enrolments have decreased due to the closure of centres deemed unfit for tertiary education.
Addressing progress in academic administration, the Vice-Chancellor noted that reforms to the results management system have greatly reduced delays that previously caused widespread complaints. “Today, apart from final-year students, levels 100 to 300 face no issues,” he said, attributing the improvement to measures such as mandatory registration before examinations. He urged staff to strive towards international best practices where “outstanding results” become a thing of the past.
On gender balance, Prof. Mitchual acknowledged that both staff and student populations remain male-dominated but noted that policies are in place to promote fairness and inclusivity. He further disclosed that while postgraduate and international student enrolments are still relatively low, strategies are being rolled out to raise these numbers.
Prof. Mitchual also addressed issues related to infrastructure, accommodation and library space. He announced that several major projects are in progress including the University Hospital, new lecture theatres and road network enhancements. Additionally, the University is working towards becoming a smart campus through the installation of CCTV, upgraded ICT systems and a data centre to improve teaching, learning and administrative operations.
On financial matters, the Vice-Chancellor stated that Management continues to reduce waste and diversify funding through projects, grants and partnerships with most programmes now operating on a self-financing basis to ensure long-term sustainability. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of staff promotions between 2023 and 2025, noting that 10 full professors, 48 associate professors and 42 senior lecturers were promoted along with over 300 junior and senior staff. “Leadership is about service and achievements are only possible because of your support,” he remarked, commending staff for their dedication.
Prof. Mitchual also praised UEW’s progress in sports, highlighting its strong performance in national competitions and readiness to host future events. He noted the growth of research output with the African Research Institute for Education Studies (ARIES) repositioned as a key research hub and the launch of the 2025–2030 Strategic Plan to direct the University’s future development.
Despite these successes, he recognised ongoing challenges such as land encroachment, financial constraints and legal disputes but remained optimistic that with teamwork, vigilance, and shared responsibility, these issues could be overcome. Prof. Mitchual concluded his speech by sincerely thanking the staff for their hard work, prayers and encouragement. “Let us continue working as a family, touching lives and striving for excellence,” he urged.
The interactive session allowed staff to engage directly with Management, raise concerns, and offer practical suggestions to enhance the University’s operations and service delivery.
The Vice-Chancellor’s speech and the subsequent discussions underlined UEW’s dedication to transparency and inclusive governance, signalling a renewed focus on collaboration as the institution advances its strategic priorities for the next six years.
