Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong appointed first Chancellor of UniMAC

The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) has appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Special Group of Companies, Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, as its first Chancellor.

The appointment, which takes effect from August 1, was approved by the University's Governing Council at its meeting held on May 26, in accordance with the provisions of the UniMAC Statutes.

UniMAC said the appointment reflects the Council's confidence in Dr. Ofori Sarpong's leadership experience, entrepreneurial achievements and commitment to national development.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 7, the University described Dr. Ofori Sarpong as one of Ghana's most accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders.

"Mr Ofori Sarpong is one of Ghana's most accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders, whose distinguished career has been characterised by visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to national development," portion of the statement read.

As Chancellor, Dr. Ofori Sarpong will serve as the ceremonial head of the University, providing leadership, championing UniMAC's vision and strategic interests, strengthening engagement with industry and society, and conferring degrees and other academic honours on behalf of the institution.

The University said his extensive experience across manufacturing, real estate, finance, construction and media makes him suitable to support UniMAC's growth and strengthen its relationship with industry.

Dr. Ofori Sarpong is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Special Group of Companies and has played key roles in the establishment and growth of several businesses, including United Television (UTV), Best Point Savings and Loans Limited and U2 Salt Limited.

He is also a Chartered Accountant and holds a Master of Science degree in Finance and Investment Management from the University of Salford in the United Kingdom. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration at École Supérieure de Gestion (ESG), France.

Beyond business, Dr. Ofori Sarpong has served on several boards and advisory bodies, including as Board Chairman of the Governing Council of Presbyterian Boys' Secondary School (PRESEC), Chairman of the EMY Africa Awards and Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana.

UniMAC was established by an Act of Parliament (Act 1059) in 2020 through the merger of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL) and the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI) to create a specialised institution for media, arts, communication and related disciplines.