The Office of Doctoral Programmes (ODP) at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has organised a one-day orientation programme for 43 newly admitted PhD candidates.
They include 14 PhD in Marketing candidates, 10 PhD in Accounting candidates, 16 PhD in International Security and Intelligence candidate, and three PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies candidates.
The pre-academic orientation, which was held at the School of Graduate Studies on Thursday, August 31, afforded the PhD candidates an insight into the academic journey ahead and exposed them to the various courses and activities they will undertake.
It also provided an opportunity for the students to meet and interact with members of their faculties for the first time, as well as to be sensitised on the university’s rules and regulations.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Prof. John K. M. Mawutor, welcomed the students to the university and congratulated them on their successful admission.
He thanked them for taking the right decision to enrol in UPSA, stressing that the management of the university has put in place the right support systems to make their academic journey a success.
The Director of ODP, Professor Raymond Dziwornu, said that the orientation programme served as a robust foundation for the PhD candidates and prepared them to dive deep into their research projects and make a meaningful impact on the world.
“Our faculties are dedicated to nurturing your potential as future leaders in the disciplines you have chosen and will equip you with the relevant skills you will need to conduct your research,” he said.
Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Professor Samuel Antwi, urged the students to use the appropriate channels of communication to express their grievances and refrain from using social media for such purposes.
Heads of various faculties and directorates took turns to address the students on general academic issues, including the grading system, course registration, fees and schedules, library resources, online support services, requirements for graduation, and medical services.
Some of the speakers included Prof Fidelis Quansah, Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies; Dr Edwin Ayernor, Director of the Documentation and Information Management Centre; Mr James Ami-Narh, Director of ISTD; Mr Anthony Afeadie, Director of Academic Affairs; Mr Wilson Ndebilla, Deputy Finance Director; and Dr Isaac Newman Arthur, Ag. Director of Medical Services.
