A partnership between Accra Technical University (ATU) and Abrantie College to create new opportunities in cosmetology education has taken a major step forward with the accreditation of a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Paramedical Trichology.

Following the accreditation, a delegation from Abrantie College, led by its Director, Dr. King David Thompson, paid a courtesy and appreciation visit to the Vice-Chancellor of ATU, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, and members of the University Management on August 6, 2026. The visit was to thank the University for its support in developing the programme and discuss the way forward.

The new HND addresses a gap in the academic progression of cosmetology students. Previously, students who completed National Certificate II (NC II) had no established HND pathway in cosmetology to continue their education towards a bachelor's degree.

Dr. King David Thompson explained that the programme was developed after months of research and consultations involving Abrantie College, ATU and industry experts. It will provide students with advanced training in hair and scalp health while creating a clear path to higher education.

He described HND in Paramedical Trichology as the first of its kind in Africa and said the achievement opens the door for the development of more programmes in cosmetology.

Prof. Amevi Acakpovi welcomed the development and stressed the importance of maintaining high academic standards. He explained that admission into the programme would be controlled to ensure quality, while applicants who do not meet the entry requirements could undertake a Pre-HND programme at Abrantie College to prepare them for HND.

He also disclosed that plans are underway to develop a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) programme before the first HND students complete their studies. This will allow the pioneer students to progress directly to the bachelor's level.

The development is one of the outcomes of an MoU signed between ATU and Abrantie College on September 12, 2024. The partnership seeks to strengthen training in fashion, cosmetology, and related areas while creating opportunities for students to progress from vocational training to higher education.