Prof. Eric Kwasi Ofori has officially been invested as the Vice Chancellor of Garden City University (GCU), pledging to lead the institution with integrity, transparency and innovation.
The investiture ceremony held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the university’s campus at Kwabre Kenyasi in the Ashanti Region, brought together university officials, traditional leaders, academics, students and invited guests.
The event also coincided with the university’s 18th Congregation Graduate Session, during which 48 students graduated with masters’ degrees in Public Health.
Members of the University Council formally presented Prof. Ofori with the symbols of office, officially ushering him into the institution’s highest academic leadership position.
The special guest of honour for the occasion was the Okyenhene of Akyem Abuakwa, Osagyefuo Amotia Ofori Panin II.
He will serve a four-year term from July 2026 to June 2030, with the possibility of renewal in accordance with the university’s statutes.
His tenure is expected to focus on expanding academic programmes, strengthening research, improving infrastructure and enhancing the university’s global visibility.
Chancellor of Garden City University, Mr. Albert Acquah, described the new Vice Chancellor as a distinguished academic with a proven record of leadership, expressing confidence in his ability to advance the institution’s vision.
He said Prof. Ofori’s experience and commitment to higher education would strengthen teaching, research, innovation and strategic partnerships.
Delivering his inaugural address, Prof. Eric Kwasi Ofori outlined his leadership philosophy, stressing his determination to create opportunities for growth rather than merely maintaining the status quo.
“I am an opportunity-driven leader. I do not accept what exists and call it potential. I look at what does not yet exist and I commit to creating it,” he stated.
He assured members of the university community that his administration would embrace inclusiveness and teamwork.
“I will lead by example. I will work with and through people, not above them. I will make decisions inclusively, hold every member of this community in high regard, and empower Deans, Heads of Department, faculty, students, and staff to bring their best ideas forward. My door will be open. My mind will be open. And my commitment to this institution will be total,” he said.
Prof. Kwasi Ofori also made three public commitments, promising to place the university’s interests above personal considerations while promoting transparency in governance.
“As I assume this office, I make three public commitments. I will lead with integrity, placing institutional mission above personal interest at all times. I will lead with transparency, keeping this community informed and engaged as genuine partners in governance. And I will work tirelessly to advance the mission and vision of Garden City University,” he pledged.
Accepting the responsibility, Prof. Eric Kwasi Ofori reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Garden City University into a leading institution on the continent.
“I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep commitment to academic excellence, research, and innovation and student development. Together, we will position Garden City University among the leading universities in Africa,” he said.
His administration is expected to pursue strategic reforms aimed at strengthening academic excellence and raising the university’s international profile.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
