UGC aims for enhanced innovation and academic excellence in 2025
The leadership of the University of Gold Coast (UGC), previously known as Accra Business School, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to blending faith, innovation, and academic excellence in 2025 and beyond.
The university has vowed to maintain the highest educational standards while equipping graduates to lead with both compassion and conviction.
This announcement follows the granting of a Presidential Charter, Ghana’s highest academic distinction, by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on December 19, 2024.
President of UGC, Professor Elvis Cornerstone highlighted that while the university celebrates this prestigious achievement, it is also committed to broadening its impact both in Ghana and globally.
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“With a solid foundation and a renewed mandate, UGC is set to continue its path as a world-class Christian university, cultivating a new generation of transformative leaders for a brighter future,” he stated.
Presidential Charter
UGC reached the significant milestone of being awarded the Presidential Charter, Ghana’s highest accreditation for tertiary institutions, alongside 13 other institutions nationwide.
This prestigious accreditation is reserved for institutions that demonstrate excellence in governance, academic rigour and innovation, making UGC part of an elite group of chartered universities in the country.
The Presidential Charter further grants these institutions autonomy to award their own degrees, diplomas and certificates without affiliating with other universities.
In his award presentation, President Akufo-Addo praised UGC for its leadership in business, innovation, and education.
“UGC stands as a model institution, setting the standard for private universities in Ghana. It has rightfully earned its place as a leading institution in business, leadership, and innovation. UGC is a beacon of excellence, demonstrating what is possible when vision and dedication come together,” President Akufo-Addo said.
The Charter ceremony was attended by the university’s founders and key leaders, including the President of UGC, Professor Elvis Cornerstone, Chief Operating Officer, Mr Kevin Titi-Ofei and the Registrar, Mr Savior Nyamedie.
A Legacy of excellence and innovation
UGC’s path to this historic recognition is marked by two decades of visionary leadership and transformative education.
Founded in 2004 by Bishop Gideon and Lady Olivia Titi-Ofei, the institution initially operated as the African Centre for Leadership and Human Resource Development (AFRILEAD).
Over time, it evolved into the Graduate School of Governance and Leadership, then Accra Business School, before ultimately rebranding as the University of Gold Coast.
Throughout this journey, UGC has remained dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and industry, offering globally competitive programs designed to foster innovation and cultivate future-ready leaders.
The granting of the Presidential Charter serves as a testament to UGC’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, faith-driven leadership, and meaningful societal impact.
Greater responsibility
Professor Elvis Cornerstone, reflecting on this significant milestone, stated, “The Presidential Charter is not merely a recognition of our past accomplishments; it is a call to embrace greater responsibility. We are dedicated to shaping a golden generation of leaders who will transform Ghana and the world.”
He further explained that the Presidential Charter grants UGC full autonomy in governance, program development, and the awarding of degrees.
“This autonomy allows the university to expand its offerings across postgraduate, undergraduate, and professional disciplines, ensuring that students receive a world-class education tailored to the demands of the global economy.”
He continued: “Furthermore, the accreditation reinforces UGC’s reputation as a globally competitive institution, opening new opportunities for collaboration, research, and innovation.”
“It also affirms our role in shaping Christ-centred leaders equipped to solve complex challenges with integrity and purpose,” he added.
Appreciation
He expressed deep gratitude to the founders, Bishop Gideon and Lady Olivia Titi-Ofei, “whose vision and steadfast faith established the foundation for this historic achievement.”
He also recognized the collective contributions of the faculty, staff, students, and partners who have played a crucial role in building UGC’s legacy of excellence.