Occultism on the increase at UCC

Reports from the Bureau of National Investigations suggest that the practice of occultism is on the ascendancy on the campus of the University of Cape Coast, raising serious concerns among the authorities.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Emmanuel Adow-Obeng, who disclosed this at the 36th Congregation Thanksgiving Service held Sunday, urged those involved in the practice to desist from it “as it does not augur well for your personal and academic development.”

The University last semester recorded several cases of stabbing. Even though many of the victims had their mobile phones snatched as well, there was strong suspicion that the perpetrators of the act were part of an occult network that allegedly required blood to perform its rituals.

The Vice Chancellor served notice of the determination of his administration to deal with the issue, and urged the students to report any suspicious activities in the halls of residence to the appropriate authorities. Addressing the first session of the University's Congregation last Friday, Elizabeth Ohene, Minister of State in Charge of Tertiary Education, touched on the issue and advised the students against the practice.

Preaching at the Thanksgiving service under the theme, “Frugality and Prodigality,” Dag Heward-Mills, Bishop of Lighthouse Chapel International, urged the students to make good use of the opportunities that come their ways to develop their potentials and acquire the skills and knowledge required to contribute effectively to the nation's socio-economic development.

Bishop Heward-Mills further advised the students to avoid all negative and counter-productive activities that could undermine their personal development and also have a negative impact on the nation's development.