Accra: The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) conducted matriculation ceremonies for its Sandwich students at both the Ho and Hohoe campuses, marking the commencement of the 2024/2025 academic year. A total of 1,230 students, including both undergraduate and postgraduate entrants, were officially matriculated.
According to Ghana News Agency, the University received 1,612 undergraduate applications, offering admission to 1,442 applicants. Of those admitted, 1,178 students enrolled, comprising 938 females and 240 males. For postgraduate programmes, UHAS received 145 applications, admitted 60 students, and enrolled 52, including 44 females and eight males.
Vice Chancellor Professor Lydia Aziato presided over the main ceremony at the Sokode-Lokoe campus in Ho, congratulating the newly matriculated students on choosing UHAS for their academic pursuits. She commended the postgraduate students for their decision to pursue advanced studies, assuring them of limitless opportunities.
Professor Aziato highlighted the University's growth from 154 students 13 years ago to a current population exceeding 11,000. She urged new students to maintain academic integrity and avoid examination malpractice while taking advantage of the opportunities at UHAS for personal and professional development. She acknowledged existing infrastructural challenges and assured that both the Government and University Management are working to resolve them, urging students to responsibly manage current facilities.
The ceremony at the Fred Newton Binka School of Public Health campus in Hohoe was led by Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Frank Edwin. On the Ho campus, student representatives Mr. Pius Boateng and Ms. Emmanuella Narki Kweku-Duah delivered an inspiring address, affirming their cohort's dedication to their chosen fields. At Hohoe, Mr. Bediako Saviour and Ms. Constance Domotey emphasized the importance of curiosity, resilience, and teamwork in public health, pledging their cohort's determination throughout their academic journey.
The main campus ceremony was attended by key university officials, including Registrar Ms. Yaa Amankwaa Opuni, alongside Deans, Directors, faculty, and staff. At Hohoe, Director of Academic Affairs Dr. Cedric Dorkernoo represented the Registrar, joined by other university leaders.
A significant milestone was achieved with the admission of Mr. Emmanuel Kojo Sackey, a Level 300 Bachelor of Public Health (Nutrition) student and the first visually impaired student at UHAS, highlighting the University's commitment to inclusivity and the rights of vulnerable persons.
UHAS's first Sandwich matriculation was held on July 18, 2015. This year marks a decade since the programme's inception, providing pathways for certificate and diploma holders to pursue bachelor's degrees. Initially, nurses and midwives with certificates had to complete a diploma and gain work experience before qualifying for degree programmes.
Since its founding, UHAS has pioneered innovative healthcare training programmes, remaining the only university in Ghana offering first-degree training in Sports and Exercise Medical Sciences and Orthotics and Prosthetics. New programmes, including a master's in nursing leadership and management, are expected to be launched soon.
UHAS continues to establish itself as a leading institution in healthcare education, with the 10th Sandwich Matriculation ceremony underscoring its enduring mission to develop a fit-for-purpose healthcare training institution.
