Over 5,800 newly-admitted students have undergone pre-academic orientation sessions organised by the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
The three-day in-person orientation programme featured both general and departmental sessions, offering the fresh students an insight into their academic journey ahead.
It also exposed the students to various courses and activities they will undertake as undergraduates while providing an opportunity for them to meet and interact with members of their faculties for the first time.
In welcoming the freshmen to UPSA, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abednego F. O. Amartey, urged them to focus on their studies.
“Do not be distracted as you embark on this academic journey,” Prof. Amartey said. “Focus on your studies and be disciplined, adhering to the rules and regulations of this university.
“As you may have already been told, UPSA does not subscribe to bad behaviour. So we expect you to put up good behaviour wherever you go, whether on campus or off campus.”
Prof. Amartey encouraged the freshmen to explore their environment and expose themselves to the academic resources and co-curricular activities at their disposal.
He, however, cautioned against the negative use of social media, which he said could be a “distraction” to their academic pursuit.
The Director of Academic Affairs, Mr Anthony Afeadie, engaged the students on academic policies, the course registration process, the grading system, and examination rules and regulations, among others.
The Director of Administration, Mrs Lorraine Gyan, who delivered the students expectations address on behalf of the registrar, entreated the students to familiarise themselves with the students’ handbook.
She emphasised the need for students to adhere to the professional dress code of the university while also urging them to be punctual at all times.
“As a university, it is our hope that you will come out a better person after your two or four-year studies,” Mrs Gyan said.
Heads of departments, faculties, and directorates also took turns to address the students, touching on matters related to medical services, learning management systems, ICT, hostel bookings and rules, as well as library facilities.
The speakers included Prof. Fidelis Quansah, Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies; Dr Edwin Tetteh Ayernor, Director, Learning Management Systems (LMS); Dr Isaac Newman Arthur, Director, Medical Services; and Mr Robert Gyeke-Darko, Director of the Business Development Centre.
The freshmen are expected to undergo medical tests and avail themselves for the University’s matriculation ceremony later in the semester.
