ATU Hosts Workshop on Digitising Indigenous Knowledge to Preserve Community Heritage

Accra Technical University (ATU), in collaboration with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, has organised a one-day Training of Trainers (ToT) Workshop aimed at strengthening efforts to preserve indigenous knowledge through digitisation and community-led archiving initiatives. Held on April 30, 2026, at the ATU Research Commons under the Collaborative Archival and Community Stewardship Ghana (CACASG) Project, the workshop brought together stakeholders from traditional councils, academia, archival institutions, media organisations, museums, and community groups to explore practical approaches to documenting and preserving local knowledge systems. The workshop formed part of ongoing efforts to build capacity in community archiving across Ghana and Africa by equipping participants with practical skills in digital preservation, oral history documentation, metadata creation, and sustainable archival practices. Opening the workshop, facilitators and organisers highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge, oral traditions, cultural expressions, and local histories that are often undocumented and vulnerable to being lost over time. Participants were encouraged to see communities as custodians of heritage and active contributors to preserving and managing their own histories. The training was led by Prof. Chris Prom of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, together with Dr. Florence Plockey and Mr. Donus W. Buadi. Through presentations, discussions, demonstrations, and practical exercises, participants were introduced to digital archiving principles and explored methods for creating sustainable community archives that remain community-owned and culturally sensitive. Sessions covered a wide range of areas, including digital archives and preservation planning, oral history collection, scanning and digitisation processes, metadata creation, community engagement strategies, and opportunities for funding and sustaining archival projects. Participants also took part in hands-on activities that challenged them to identify culturally valuable materials within their communities and develop practical plans for preserving them digitally. Discussions during the workshop also brought attention to broader issues affecting community archiving efforts, particularly funding limitations and societal perceptions surrounding indigenous knowledge. Participants emphasised the need to reposition indigenous knowledge as an important resource for community identity and national development while strengthening partnerships to support preservation initiatives. In his closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, expressed appreciation to the facilitators, participants, and partners for their commitment throughout the workshop. He encouraged participants to sustain the networks created and apply the knowledge gained within their communities. He further noted that the growing collaboration between ATU and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign presents opportunities for future research, training, and community engagement initiatives in archival studies and related fields. The workshop ended with the presentation of certificates to participants and an exchange of gifts between the Vice-Chancellor and the lead facilitator, marking the close of the training and reaffirming the shared commitment to advancing community archiving practices in Ghana.

New Audit Committee Inaugurated

ATU has inaugurated its newly constituted Audit Committee at a brief ceremony held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in the Council Chamber. The new committee replaces the outgoing Audit Committee, which completed its mandatory four-year tenure. The ceremony was attended by the Director-General of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA), Mr. Thomas Nii Ashaley Thompson-Aryee, who administered the statutory Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy to members of the committee, in line with the amended Public Financial Management Act (Act 113). As part of the proceedings, Rev. Dr. Carl Mensah Ahadzi, one of the three independent members, was elected Chair after a formal nomination process. In his acceptance remarks, he pledged to provide strong leadership and ensure the effective functioning of the Committee. In his address, the Director-General briefed management on ongoing public sector reforms, including World Bank-supported efforts to strengthen public financial management in Ghana. He highlighted the need to improve the implementation rate of internal audit recommendations to at least 50 percent and stressed the importance of the timely submission of the Commitment Control Checklist (CCC). He further urged the Committee to uphold strict compliance with regulatory requirements, warning that institutions that fail to comply may face sanctions from the Ministry of Finance. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, in response, reaffirmed ATU’s commitment to full compliance with regulatory standards and its resolve to strengthen internal accountability systems.

ATU Students Excel in Global Neuroimaging Research Collaboration

Eleven students from the Science Laboratory Technology Department have distinguished themselves on the global stage after participating in an international collaborative research and teaching initiative involving universities across Africa and the United States. The project, titled “Bridging the Atlantic with Undergraduate Research and Cloud Computing: Analysis of Brain Volumetric Differences in Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),” brought together faculty and students from the University of Port Harcourt, Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Busitema University, Lawrence Technological University, and ATU. The initiative focused on equipping undergraduate students with practical skills in neuroimaging data analysis using Brainlife.io, a globally recognised platform for reproducible brain imaging research and cloud-based computing in neuroscience. As part of the programme, students were placed in international research teams, allowing them to work across borders while building skills in teamwork, communication, and collaborative problem-solving. The experience also exposed them to global research standards and intercultural learning. The participating ATU students were Acheampong Rabbi, Quarshie Bright Gblie, Bismark Baidoo, Ntow Philip Junior, Richards Chris Adotey, Sika-Nartey Emmanuel, Ernestina Atswei Mensah, Miriam Princess McCarthy, Yeboah Bernard Omane, Adjeitey Abdellah, and Gabriel Mensah Edem Kwashie. The students were supervised locally by Mr. Jacob Apibilla Ayembilla, who coordinated their involvement throughout the training and research process. The programme culminated in an international virtual conference hosted by Lawrence Technological University on Friday, April 24, 2026, where the students presented their findings alongside peers from partner institutions. Faculty members also reflected on the outcomes of the collaboration and explored opportunities for future expansion. The achievement reflects ATU’s growing commitment to international partnerships and innovation, in line with its Strategic Plan 2026–2030. It also highlights the University’s efforts to enhance student employability and expand its global academic footprint. The University community congratulates the students and their supervisor for representing ATU with distinction on the international academic stage.

ATU Named Overall Best TVET Provider at Ghana TVET Excellence Awards

Accra Technical University (ATU) has been adjudged the Overall Best TVET Provider – Tertiary Level at the Ghana TVET Excellence Awards, held at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra. The awards ceremony, organised by the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) in collaboration with the German Delegation of Industry and Commerce in Ghana, was held on the theme: “Celebrating Outstanding Skills, Innovations and Industry Partnerships.” The recognition follows a rigorous and transparent evaluation process. Institutions responded to a national call for submissions, after which entries were assessed by a jury. The submissions were further reviewed and scored by industry experts. Final scores were determined by the average of these independent assessments. ATU’s selection as the overall winner reflects its strong performance across key areas, including practical skills training, innovation, and industry collaboration. The University continues to distinguish itself through competency-based education and strategic partnerships that equip students with the skills the job market demands. This recognition places ATU among the leading institutions advancing quality and relevance within Ghana’s TVET ecosystem. It also affirms the University’s role in supporting national development by training a skilled and industry-ready workforce. The event brought together key stakeholders from education, industry, and policy, serving as a platform to celebrate excellence and innovation in technical and vocational education nationwide. ATU is grateful to CTVET and its partners for the honour and reaffirms its commitment to strengthening technical education, promoting innovation, and deepening industry partnerships for sustainable national development.

ATU Strengthens Transport Operations with Capacity-Building Workshop for Drivers

Accra Technical University (ATU) has reinforced its commitment to operational excellence and service delivery with a two-day capacity-building workshop organized for drivers of the University’s Transport Unit. The training, held from April 13 to 14, 2026, took place at the ATU Akwaaba Lodge and the ATU Career Center. The workshop formed part of a broader institutional effort to enhance professionalism, safety standards, and efficiency within the University’s transport operations, recognizing the critical role drivers play in supporting administrative and academic activities. Opening the workshop, the Director of the General Service Directorate, Mr. Daniel Larbi, emphasized the importance of continuous training and professional development. He noted that the evolving demands of institutional transport services require drivers to be equipped not only with technical driving skills but also with the right attitude, discipline, and organizational awareness. In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, underscored that the initiative aligns with Management’s strategic direction to invest in human capital development across all operational units. He highlighted that the training is designed to instill a culture of responsibility, safety consciousness, and professionalism among drivers. The Finance Director, and the Ag. Registrar, Mr. Adu-Adjei Mensah, also reiterated the importance of the workshop, noting that improved driver performance contributes directly to cost efficiency, asset protection, and overall institutional effectiveness. The workshop featured a comprehensive training session facilitated by Commander Hayford Adu-Ameyaw (RTD), a seasoned expert in organizational and corporate driving. His sessions focused on practical and professional competencies required in modern institutional driving. Key areas covered included ethics and techniques in organizational driving, defensive driving principles, professional standards in corporate Driving, proper use of logbooks, and effective report writing on road traffic accidents and vehicle breakdowns. The sessions were highly interactive, allowing participants to engage actively and relate the training to real-life experiences within the University context. A notable feature of the workshop was the open engagement session, where drivers expressed concerns and shared operational challenges affecting their work. The discussions highlighted issues related to working conditions, communication gaps, and operational processes within the transport system. In response, Commander Adu-Ameyaw assured participants that all concerns raised would be formally documented and presented to University Management, with the aim of informing policy adjustments and improving working conditions within the Transport Unit. The workshop concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among participants, who expressed appreciation for the initiative and a commitment to applying the knowledge and skills acquired. Observations from the training indicated increased awareness of professional standards, improved understanding of safety protocols, and a stronger alignment with the University’s expectations for service delivery. The initiative reflects ATU’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its internal systems through targeted training and capacity development. As the University continues to pursue excellence, investments in operational units such as the Transport Unit remain critical to achieving efficiency, reliability, and institutional growth. The workshop ended with a collective commitment from both management and drivers to foster continuous improvement, enhance communication, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism in service to the University community.

ATU Partners Josh Institute to Open Pathways into Tourism and Aviation Careers

Accra Technical University (ATU) has signed a new partnership with Josh Institute to create opportunities for students interested in careers in tourism and aviation. The agreement, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 2, 2026, at the University’s Council Chamber, is expected to provide students with practical training and a clearer path into the industry. Welcoming the delegation, Vice-Chancellor Professor Amevi Acakpovi described the partnership as a significant step toward opening new career options for students. He explained that tourism and aviation are rapidly growing sectors that provide real opportunities for employment and financial independence. According to him, exposing students to these fields will not only broaden their horizons but also prepare them for industries that are constantly changing. He added that the collaboration aligns well with ATU’s goal of training students with practical skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace. He expressed confidence that the programme will positively impact students and help them transition smoothly into the job market. The Managing Director of Josh Training Institute, Mr. Frank Annim-Bosu, also highlighted the importance of the partnership. He noted that skills such as marketing and customer service are in high demand within the tourism and aviation industry. He explained that beyond technical knowledge, these industries require people who can communicate well, manage clients, and deliver good service. He said the institute is ready to support ATU in training students to meet these expectations. He further assured that the training will be practical and focused to prepare students to be job-ready upon completion. On his part, the Dean of the Faculty of Applied Arts, Professor George Osei-Adjei, expressed delight at the successful realisation of the partnership, noting that the days and weeks of hard work and collaborative information sharing had ultimately paid off. The partnership with Josh Institute adds to a growing list of collaborations between ATU and industry. Through such partnerships, the University continues to create avenues for mentorship, professional development, and networking, ensuring that students are well-prepared for life after school.

ATU Unveils Strategic Plan for 2026–2030

Accra Technical University (ATU) has launched its five-year Strategic Plan, outlining the vision and direction of the University from 2026 to 2030. The event was held on April 7, 2026, at the University Auditorium. Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi, urged the University community to take the plan seriously and ensure it is fully implemented. He cautioned against treating it as a document that will sit on the shelf without impact. According to him, the success of the plan depends on the collective effort of staff and management, stressing that every member of the University must understand their role and contribute towards achieving the outlined goals. He added that beyond the excitement of the launch, the University must be ready to account for its progress when the plan is reviewed in the future. The Director of Tertiary Education at the Ministry of Education, Dr. Emmanuel Newman, described the plan as a clear roadmap for transformation and growth. He noted that the future of technical universities lies in their ability to move beyond theory and focus on practical skills, innovation, and product development. He stressed that institutions like ATU must produce graduates who can solve problems, create jobs, and contribute to industrial development. He further highlighted the importance of aligning education with industry needs, adding that employers today are looking for competence, adaptability, and innovation, not just certificates. Dr. Newman also pointed to opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, renewable energy, and entrepreneurship, urging the University to position itself to take advantage of these trends. He encouraged stronger collaboration with industry and assured the University of government support in implementing the plan, while emphasising that the true value of the strategy will be seen in its execution and impact. The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Amevi Ackapovi, in his presentation, outlined the University’s renewed focus on driving excellence through competency-based, industry-aligned education. He stated that ATU will strengthen research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, while equipping both staff and students with future-ready skills. He added that the University will also deepen strategic partnerships and enhance its global visibility as part of efforts to position ATU as a leading technical university in Africa. The Strategic Plan (2026–2030) serves as a roadmap to guide the University’s growth over the next five years. It builds on the previous plan while responding to new challenges and opportunities in higher education and industry. The document is anchored on seven key pillars, including competency-based teaching and learning, digital transformation and modern infrastructure, quality assurance and institutional excellence, industry-driven research and innovation, staff development and welfare, strategic partnerships and visibility, and green technologies and sustainability. These pillars are designed to strengthen teaching, promote innovation, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall impact of the University.

ATU, Nestlé Ghana Partner to Train Female Engineering Students

Accra Technical University (ATU) has taken another step to connect classroom learning with industry practice, as it welcomed a team from Nestlé Ghana to begin a new training initiative for students. The visit follows an agreement between the two institutions to roll out the Nestlé Technical Training Programme (NES-TECH), aimed at equipping female engineering students with practical, industry-relevant skills. The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on April 2, 2026, at the University’s Council Chamber. Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of ATU, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, expressed his excitement about the initiative and the opportunities it presents for students. He noted that as a technical university, ATU places strong emphasis on preparing students for the world of work. According to him, the University remains focused on guiding students toward meaningful career paths and welcomed the programme as a step in the right direction. He added that closer collaboration between industry and academia is key to building a strong and sustainable workforce. The Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana Limited, Ms. Salome Azevedo, also shared her enthusiasm about the partnership. She linked the initiative to efforts to promote gender inclusion in engineering, especially in the context of International Women’s Day. She explained that the NES-TECH programme is designed to support and empower young female engineers to succeed in their chosen careers. Adding her voice, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Mrs. Tina Wemegah described the collaboration as timely and beneficial. She noted that in today’s fast-changing, technology-driven world, practical skills are essential, especially for women pursuing careers in engineering.The Nestlé Technical Training Programme forms part of Nestlé’s global “Needs Youth” initiative, which focuses on improving youth employability. The programme will provide hands-on training in areas such as Mechanical, Electrical, and Automation Engineering, helping students gain the skills needed to transition smoothly into industry.

Over 5,000 Graduates as ATU Holds 25th Congregation

Accra Technical University (ATU) on Friday, March 27, 2026, held its 25th Congregation Ceremony at the University’s Ceremonial Grounds, bringing together graduands, families, government officials, industry players and members of the University community to mark the occasion. The ceremony forms part of the 2024/2025 academic year graduation and follows an earlier session held in November 2025. Graduands were drawn from MSc/MTech, BTech, Higher National Diploma (HND), Diploma and other programmes. The event was marked by a ceremonial procession and the presentation of graduands, as students were called in batches to receive their awards amid cheers from family and friends. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Minister for Education, Hon. Clement Apaak, noted that the world of work has become more driven by technology, with artificial intelligence and digital systems shaping how people work and do business. He indicated that the government is shifting education towards a more practical approach, with greater emphasis on hands-on training, while also working to expand access through reforms such as improvements in student financing and investment in technical education. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, highlighted the University’s academic growth, stating that over 5,000 students graduated in this session, with a larger number recorded across the full academic year. He pointed to the increasing number of BTech programmes and the gradual shift from HND to degree qualifications as part of the University’s transformation. He also noted ongoing investments in research, infrastructure and partnerships, including support for innovation, digital systems and industry-focused training. The Congregation Speaker, Mr. Felix Gomis, Managing Director, West Africa Cluster, Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company, emphasised the role of technical university graduates in driving development, noting that their skills are needed in areas such as engineering, technology, and industry. He pointed out that the global job market is becoming more competitive and requires graduates to go beyond certificates by developing initiative, discipline, and the ability to keep learning. He further encouraged them to take advantage of opportunities, start with what they have, and remain consistent in building their careers. Kingsley Dadzie of the Mechanical Engineering Department emerged as the Overall Best Graduating HND Student with a CGPA of 4.752, while Sekyi Elizabeth Mary was named the Overall Best Graduating Female Student with a CGPA of 4.748. This session saw about 5,016 students graduate, contributing to a total of 7,816 graduates for the academic year, reflecting the University’s growing output of skilled manpower for national development.

ATU Business School Holds Forum on Rebranding and Academic Development

Faculty of Business Holds Forum on Academic Development and Transition to Business SchoolThe Faculty of Business of Accra Technical University, soon to be rebranded as the ATU Business School, has held a forum for lecturers and administrative staff to discuss academic development and plans to transform the faculty into a fully recognised business school. The forum, held on March 12, 2026, brought together lecturers and administrators to review the faculty’s progress and outline strategic steps to strengthen teaching, research, and industry engagement. Speaking at the meeting, the Dean of the School, Professor Elikem Ocloo, commended lecturers for their dedication to teaching, research, and mentorship, noting that their collective efforts continue to shape the next generation of business leaders. He outlined several academic programmes currently being developed by the faculty. These include BTech Economics and Finance and BTech Public Administration, which are awaiting final approval from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC). He also indicated that BTech Marketing and Entrepreneurship and a PhD in Business Administration are currently at the submission stage. In addition, the faculty is developing short courses, including Entrepreneurship and Innovation, to broaden its academic offerings. Professor Ocloo further highlighted efforts to strengthen industry engagement through collaboration with professional bodies. These include the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG), the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management (CIHRM), the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG), the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). According to him, these partnerships will encourage students and staff to pursue professional qualifications that will enhance their competence and employability. The Dean also announced plans to introduce several initiatives to support academic growth within the school. These include establishing an ATU Business School Development Fund to support research, publications, and other academic activities, as well as the creation of a Professional Development Desk to coordinate structured professional, career, and personal development opportunities for students and faculty. A key highlight of the forum was the announcement of the approved proposal to rebrand the Faculty of Business as the ATU Business School. Chairman of the Rebranding Committee, Dr. Hanson Obiri-Yeboah, disclosed that the proposal has been approved by the Academic Board and is currently awaiting final ratification by the University Council. He added that the official launch of the ATU Business School is expected to take place between April and May 2026 and will involve the media and key industry stakeholders. During the forum, the Head of the Quality Assurance Department, Mrs. Sarah Morrison, also addressed lecturers on ethics, professional conduct, and examination standards. She urged lecturers to provide timely feedback to students and to adhere strictly to approved procedures when setting and administering examinations. The forum formed part of ongoing efforts by the faculty to strengthen academic quality, deepen industry engagement, and position the future ATU Business School as a leading centre for business education and professional development.