Don't blame Prof. Yankah for conversion of Commonwealth Hall - UG

The University of Ghana has expressed concerned over media reports about the university's decision to convert Commonwealth Hall into a graduate mixed hall.

It said most media reports and public statements have singled out Professor Kwesi Yankah, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, as being the source of the university decision.

In a statement signed by the university's registrar, J. M. Badu, it noted: “On a number of occasions, some persons and groups of people have made uncomplimentary and unsavoury public statements about him which have no merit.”

In view of these “inaccurate perceptions parading in some media houses and among the general public”, the statement explained that in the governance structure of the university, the Academic Board operates under the University Council, the latter being the final decision-making body.

The statement further stated that, “the university in its daily administration and running, officials are appointed to membership of various Standing Committees of the Academic Board. The composition and functions are clearly defined in the University Statutes and do not provide for unilateral decisions by any single individual.”

It further noted that Professor C.N.B. Tagoe as Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer, chairs the Executive Committee as well as the Academic Board of the University. “It is therefore unfair to malign Professor Kwesi Yankah, Chairman of the Residence Board or indeed any official carrying out duties in such capacity.”

The university however urged the media to be circumspect when reporting on the issue which is pending before court.

It also asked the media to crosscheck from the appropriate authorities to refrain from “making misguided statements which disregard or ignore facts about the structure, processes and procedures with respect to management and administration at the university.”