To ensure effective student governance, Dr. Philomena Dadzie, the Dean of Students at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), organized a comprehensive orientation program for the newly-elected Student Representative Council (SRC) executives on Tuesday, June 6, 2023.
The one-day orientation exercise aimed to equip student leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve effectively.
The SRC executives participated in a series of workshops, interactive sessions, and team-building activities facilitated by distinguished faculty members and former student leaders.
Recognizing the pivotal role of student leaders, Dr. Dadzie encouraged the SRC executives to actively engage in addressing student needs, advocating for positive changes, and fostering a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity.
She also reminded them to uphold the values and principles of UPSA while avoiding any activities that could tarnish the university’s hard-earned reputation.
The Registrar of UPSA, Dr. Koryoe Anim-Wright, congratulated the executives on their election and urged them to work diligently to fulfil their campaign promises.
She underscored the significance of leadership and transparency, reminding the executives that they had been entrusted with representing their fellow students and making decisions that would benefit the entire student body.
Dr. Anim-Wright provided the executives with leadership tips based on the ‘MODALK’ theory, which stands for having an Open Mind, being Authentic, pursuing continuous Learning, and acquiring Knowledge.
“As a leader, you should know that you are leading individuals and so whatever you do should represent those you are leading and always Keep an open mind,” she said. “Always remember that whatever you are doing is for the greater good and never lose sight of that.”
Dr. Mercy DeSouza, a lecturer at UPSA shed light on the relevance of leadership and integrity.
Integrity, she said, should serve as the guiding principle for a leader’s actions and decisions as these qualities are crucial for building trust and fostering strong relationships.
“Integrity for you is a matter of your word and nothing else. Can people trust you?” she quizzed.
The newly-elected SRC executives expressed their gratitude for the knowledge gained during the orientation and pledged to make use of it.