Seventh-Day Adventist College of Education in Asokore, Koforidua, celebrated its 14th Congregation Ceremony under the theme, “Building Resilient Education System through Quality Teacher Education.” The event underscored the crucial role of resilient and high-quality teacher education in national development.
The event was held at the College’s hall at Koforidua-Asokore in the Eastern Region of Ghana on 1st August, 2024.
Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister, delivered an address on behalf of the Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He lauded the theme as timely and relevant, emphasizing that resilient, quality education, particularly in teacher training colleges, is essential for nation-building.
Hon. Acheampong assured that the government remains committed to investing substantially in teacher training education. He announced plans to elevate Seventh-Day Adventist College of Education (SEDACOE) to a full-fledged university of education, as part of a broader initiative to enhance fifteen selected colleges of education across the country.
The Minister highlighted the government’s intentions to construct a state-of-the-art auditorium and lecture theater for SEDACOE. He also commended the collaborative efforts of Nananom, Asokoreman, and the college’s management in expanding staff accommodation, dormitories, and other infrastructure projects. Additionally, he noted that SEDACOE has benefited from restored teacher trainee allowances, newly tarred roads, and upgraded campus electricity.
The government’s commitment to enhancing education nationwide, particularly in STEM and TVET education, was also emphasized. The Minister, on behalf of Dr. Bawumia, advised new graduates to draw on the resilience they developed during the COVID-19 pandemic and to uphold self-discipline in their professional and personal lives, reflecting positively on their alma mater, SEDACOE.
Professor Vincent Adzahlie-Mensah, Principal of SDA College of Education, expressed gratitude to the management team, tutors, non-teaching staff, and the government for their unwavering support. He announced plans for future projects, including a modern auditorium, lecture theater, comprehensive Wi-Fi networking, and additional staff accommodations. He urged the graduates to demonstrate the high-quality training they received.
Mr. Emmanuel Sarfo, a native of Asante Bekwai, was recognized as the overall best student for 2023, out of a total of 452 graduates.
Non-teaching staff awarded for their dedication included Patrick Kwasi Joseph (College Water Sachet Production), Francisca Amoah (Finance/Accounts), and Rosina Tawia (College Matron, Kitchen).
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Nana Simpei Osei Bonsu II (Oyokohene and Adontenhene of New Juaben Traditional Area), Daasebre Kwaku Boayteng III (Omanhene of New Juaben Traditional Area representative), Nana Prof. Pastor Dr. Thomas Tachie Ocran (Council Chairman, East Ghana Conference Seventh-Day Adventist Churches), Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual (Vice-Chancellor, University of Education, Winneba), and Mrs. Wilhelmina Tete-Mensah (Acting Registrar, UEW).
Credit: Nana Kwame George (Snr Freelance Journalist E/R)
