The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) has admitted its first cohort of postgraduate students to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Restoration Studies and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programmes in Sustainable Aquaculture and Biotechnology, as well as Environmental Restoration Studies. This marks a significant milestone in the University’s academic development.
Among the newly admitted students are three pioneering graduates of UESD who have enrolled in the MPhil in Environmental Restoration Studies. They are Mr. Bernard Akowuah, a former SRC President and graduate in Environment and Public Health; Miss Jessica Amu, who earned her undergraduate degree in Geography and Earth Sciences; and Mr. Michael Akosey, also an alumnus of the Geography and Earth Sciences programme.
During an orientation session to welcome the students, the Chairman of the Graduate Programmes Management Committee (GPMC), Professor Fred Pappoe, congratulated them on their admission to the Graduate School. He emphasised the University’s commitment to providing a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. He stated that the students would be guided by distinguished faculty, have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and become part of a vibrant scholarly community driven by excellence, hope, and perseverance.
Professor Pappoe also reminded the students that postgraduate studies demand more than just classroom participation. He stressed that much of their success would depend on their initiative, discipline, and dedication to their academic journey, encouraging them to read widely, manage their time effectively, and actively participate in seminars, workshops, and academic discussions.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eric Nyarko-Sampson, expressed his excitement about the enrolment of the students, noting that they have made history as the first cohort of graduate students at UESD. He also shared his vision for the future, expressing hope that some of them will go on to join the PhD programmes the University plans to introduce.
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor Edward Wiafe Debrah, encouraged the students to seek mentorship and constructive feedback from their lecturers. He highlighted the importance of taking research seriously and working closely with supervisors on their project work, which forms a critical part of the graduate curriculum. He emphasised that graduate education is not only about earning a degree, but also about collaboration, resilience, personal growth, and transformation. He urged students to build networks, nurture friendships, and remain open to diverse perspectives.
Professor Debrah also announced an international opportunity for high-achieving students—a four-week academic programme in Bonn, Germany. Additionally, he revealed that UESD will soon introduce a three-month E-Certificate programme aimed at enhancing both academic and professional skills.
As part of the orientation, the Registrar, Mrs. Mary Abena Agyepong, provided an overview of the University’s administrative structure and roles. The Deputy Registrar gave a historical overview of UESD, tracing its journey from inception to its current status. The Director of Finance, Mr. Baffour Awua Kwabi, outlined the University’s financial policies and procedures. Mr. Clifford Yamson guided students on how to access and utilise library resources effectively. Dr. Emmanuel Kitcher, Director of Information Technology Systems and Operations (ITSO), spoke on the use of IT systems within the University. Surv. Isaac Abbam addressed facility usage and its management.
Dr. Richard Amfo Otu of the Quality Assurance Division elaborated on academic policies related to postgraduate studies. Dr. Michael Odame, Chairman of the UESD HOPE Roadshow, introduced the University’s core values—Honesty, Opportunity, Perseverance, and Enterprising (HOPE)—and described initiatives that support both students and staff. The orientation programme was facilitated by the Dean of Students, Dr. (Mrs.) Daniella Sedegah.
The admission of these trailblazing postgraduate students signifies UESD’s growing role as a hub of academic excellence and innovation in environmental and sustainable development education.