Speaking at the first session of the 58th Congregation of the University, Prof Aheto debunked the notion that graduates of distance education were inferior, insisting that “distance education at UCC is not a diminished form of learning.”

“The academic standards, course content, examinations and graduation requirements are the same across all our delivery modes.

“Indeed, it is a robust and dynamic mode of instruction that demands discipline, adaptability and self-direction, and these qualities are highly valued by employers and society,” he said.
During the first session, the University graduated 1,401 students from the College of Distance Education (CoDE), comprising 756 females and 645 males, drawn from the Northern, Upper West, Upper East, North East, Savanna, Bono, Bono East, Ahafo, Ashanti and Central Regions.

The graduating class recorded 52 First Class honours, 387 Second Class Upper, 534 Second Class Lower, 267 Third Class and 161 Passes.
In all, the University will graduate 5,100 students from the College across four sessions scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, comprising 2,268 males and 2,832 females.

Miss Theresa Maale Adjobu, a student from the Ada College of Education Centre, emerged as the overall best graduating student with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.9195.
She was rewarded with a scholarship to pursue a Master’s programme of her choice, a cash prize and other items, while several other distinguished students were also honoured for their academic excellence.
Prof Aheto said UCC had made deliberate institutional investments, innovation and leveraged technology to eliminate barriers between distance and face-to-face education.
“Through digital platforms, virtual classrooms, online assessments and modern learning tools, we have ensured that distance learners enjoy similar academic resources, feedback systems, library services and student support mechanisms as their on-campus counterparts,” he stated.

Highlighting achievements of CoDE, Prof Aheto said the College had made significant progress towards its vision of establishing fully operational satellite campuses, announcing that campuses in the Greater Accra, Central and Ashanti Regions had received full accreditation.

“The facilities expand our capacity to deliver high-quality education across Ghana and ensure a seamless academic experience for all learners,” he said, adding that efforts were underway to resume stalled projects in other regions.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor noted that CoDE continued to set the pace for digital innovation, citing the establishment of an e-learning and video conferencing facility to enhance distance education delivery.
“The College continues to lead the University’s digital transformation. A research monitoring system has been rolled out to strengthen transparency and accountability in postgraduate supervision.

“Additionally, an AI-enabled learning management system scheduled for deployment in the coming academic year will position CoDE at the forefront of technology-driven education in the country,” he added.
Prof Aheto said the College was broadening its academic portfolio with certificate and career-enhancing programmes tailored to industry needs and learner flexibility.

He recounted that 61 inmates of the Nsawam Medium Security Prison graduated on March 27 this year, reiterating CoDE’s commitment to inclusive education and national development.
He said UCC invested nearly GH¢2.5 million in the initiative, covering tuition waivers, teaching and learning materials and logistical support.

Touching on UCC’s achievements, Prof Aheto said the University had been ranked first in Ghana and West Africa for the fifth consecutive year and placed 11th in Africa in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
He added that UCC hosted the Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) Games in 2024 and emerged overall winners.
Prof Aheto urged the graduands to be innovators, ethical leaders and problem solvers, saying, “Your degree is not only a symbol of academic achievement but also a reflection of your character, values and aspirations.”

Justice William Atugubah, Chairman of the University Governing Council, commended CoDE for its contribution to national workforce development and lauded families and associates of the graduands for their support.
He encouraged the graduands to make good use of their training and leverage available opportunities despite challenges.

“Your experiences here should enable you to innovate, create employment, engage in community development and become champions of sustainable change.
“Believe in your potential, embrace lifelong learning and serve your nation and generation with purpose,” he said.

Miss Adjobu, the valedictorian, described the academic journey as challenging but fulfilling, citing financial constraints, accommodation and transportation difficulties.
She said perseverance, curiosity and the willingness to learn helped them overcome the challenges.
“We have been prepared, equipped and challenged to serve as agents of change and contribute to the growth of our dear nation, Ghana.

“Let us not wait for opportunities to be handed to us; rather, let us create them with the knowledge and skills acquired from this institution,” she said.