By Kodjo Adams, GNA
Accra, Oct. 19, GNA—The Accra Technical University (ATU) Debate Society has emerged victorious in an inter-university debate held in Accra.
The University of Ghana came second, the University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ho placed third, while Cape Coast Technical University took the fourth position.
The debate was held under the motion: “This House Believes That Transitioning Polytechnics to Technical Universities Has Helped the Course of Technical Education in Ghana.
The programme, which took the form of British debate-style forms, was part of activities to mark 10 years since the institution transitioned from Polytechnic to a Technical University.
Professor Felix Y.H. Kutsanedzie, the Pro Vice Chancellor, ATU, said the debate provided an important platform for participants to assess their experiences, examine the progress made in technical university education, and identify areas requiring further attention.
He said the lessons drawn from the past 10 years should serve as a basis for strengthening technical education and guiding future interventions.
The Professor noted that education was a continuous process of constructing knowledge and gaining experience, stressing the importance of learning from past programmes and activities.
Quoting the philosophical assertion that “an unexamined life is not worth living,” he urged contestants to critically assess their experiences and achievements to determine how best to advance technical university education.
He expressed optimism that the discussions would generate valuable insights and provide a foundation for constructive engagement on the future of the sector.
Dr Martin Owusu Amoamah, a member of the 10th anniversary planning committee on transition to University, explained that the transition followed an assessment by a government-appointed team to determine whether the institution met the requirements for elevation under an Act of Parliament.
He said ATU was among the first group of polytechnics to be upgraded to technical university status after successfully undergoing the assessment process.
He expressed gratitude to the government for facilitating the transition, noting that the change had brought positive developments to the institution, particularly in preparing students for the job market.
Speaking after the victory, Daniel Aryee Ayikwei, a level 400 contestant for ATU, spoke in favor of the motion, attributing the team’s success to consistent training, effective coaching, and institutional support, which she said had strengthened members’ debating skills and confidence.
He said the university’s commitment to developing a vibrant debate society had played a significant role in preparing its members to present their arguments effectively and compete successfully.
Ms Gloria Crusader Babson, ATU co-contestant, said the society was setting its sights on international debating competitions, including the Pan-African Universities Debate Championship.
She expressed hope that the team would participate in the championship in December and win medals and trophies for the university.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter: Kodjo Adams
Email: [email protected]