Pentecost University College in Accra and All Nations University College in Koforidua can now award their own degrees and diplomas.

This follows a presentation of Presidential Charters to the two institutions by President Nana Akufo-Addo on Thursday.

“They have, as a result, transitioned into autonomous Universities, with the capacity, now, to award their own degrees and diplomas,” the Information Ministry said in an update.

On 28th May, 2020 H.E @NAkufoAddo presented Presidential Charters to the Pentecost University College, Accra, and the All Nations University College. They have, as a result, transitioned into autonomous Universities, with the capacity, now, to award their own degrees and diplomas pic.twitter.com/lMwG0IOI0W

— Ministry of Information (@moigovgh) May 28, 2020

In his speech at the ceremony at the Jubilee House, President Akufo-Addo said the two institutions “are considered to be in a good position to manage their own affairs as fully-fledged tertiary education institutions.”

He said private universities in the country go through a period “academic mentorship and supervision” for ten years after which they can apply to the National Accreditation Board for autonomy.

They must, however, “sufficient capacity in governance, finances, academic matters, and infrastructural development.”

“I am pleased to announce that Pentecost University College and All Nations University College have fulfilled these requirements,” Akufo-Addo said.

He urged the institutions to keep the bar high as they will be monitored.

“It is my expectation, and that of all Ghanaians, that, in the years ahead, other private university colleges will be able to meet the requirements of autonomy, and, thereby, contribute towards the growth and development of the country.

“Government, the National Council for Tertiary Education, the National Accreditation Board and public universities will continue to provide the necessary support and guidance in this direction,” he added.