The Planning Department of Accra Technical University hosted a delegation from Tamale Technical University for a two-day study tour to strengthen institutional collaboration and share practical experiences in university planning, academic scheduling, data management, and strategic development.
The delegation, comprising Mr. Alhassan, Planning Officer, and Miss Dibe Abdul-Rahaman, Assistant Planning Officer, was received by Ms. Gifty Ahwireng, Deputy Registrar in Charge of Planning at ATU and her team.
The study tour formed part of efforts to promote collaboration among higher educational institutions while creating a platform for knowledge sharing and professional learning in university administration.
Opening the engagement, Ms. Ahwireng introduced the visitors to the structure and operations of the University’s Planning Department. She highlighted its role in institutional development, policy implementation, and strategic decision-making. The Director of the Quality Assurance and Academic Directorate (QAAD), Prof. Phyllis Otu, also welcomed the delegation and gave a brief overview of the Directorate’s responsibilities, particularly its role in maintaining academic standards, quality assurance processes, and supporting institutional effectiveness.
The two-day programme featured presentations and practical sessions on Academic Calendar Development, Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) Data Management, Course Mounting, Academic Scheduling, Enrollment and Statistics, Programme Evaluation, and Strategic Plan Mid-Term Review.
During the sessions, officers from the Planning Department demonstrated the processes involved in preparing the University’s academic calendar, coordinating academic activities, and managing institutional data for reporting and compliance purposes. Discussions also focused on measures used to prevent timetable clashes and ensure effective coordination of academic programmes across the University.
The delegation was also taken through practical demonstrations on timetable preparation, where participants observed how course information, lecturer details, programme schedules, and student enrollment figures are entered and managed within the scheduling system before plotting timetable begins. The Planning Department further demonstrated how lecture halls are allocated based on class sizes and programme requirements to ensure effective use of space and conducive learning conditions for students.
As part of the engagement, the Tamale Technical University delegation also shared insights into the operations of their Planning Department, including their involvement in strategic planning, graduation processes, and statistical analysis within the University. They mentioned that the Head of Planning is on the Academic Board, but in Attendance.
Speaking during the closing session, Ms. Ahwireng expressed appreciation to the visiting delegation for their active participation. She emphasised the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among tertiary institutions in Ghana.
On behalf of the delegation, Mr. Alhassan thanked the Planning Department of ATU for the warm reception and valuable practical knowledge shared throughout the study tour, while Miss Dibe Abdul-Rahaman commended the professionalism demonstrated during the engagement.
Following the sessions, the delegation was taken to the office of the Vice-Chancellor, where they paid a courtesy call on him. During the visit, the Vice-Chancellor presented gifts to the delegation as a symbol of appreciation and institutional goodwill.
The study tour ended with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to strengthening institutional relationships and promoting continuous improvement in higher education planning and administration.