Professor Joshua Alabi, Rector of the Institute of Professional Studies (IPS) has proposed that the name of the institute be changed to the University of Professional Studies. According to Prof. Alabi, a draft bill which would help make this dream a reality, has gone through the various stages required and now awaits parliamentary approval and subsequent passage into law. He said “For many years, even though the conditions of service for senior members and the unionized staff has been the same as what pertains to the traditional universities, we are still battling with a problem of identity,” he noted. Speaking at the third congregation of IPS, Professor Alabi said apart from the fact that the current act was outmoded and needed to be replaced, it was very important that they resolve and put to rest the problem associated with identity, placement and recognition of the institute. Professor Alabi told the students that undergraduate degrees were gradually diminishing in value while second degrees have almost become the ticket to getting a well paid and satisfying job. Therefore, he urged the students to pursue further studies and not be satisfied with what they have achieved. He urged them to stand for what they believe in and let integrity, respect and service which are the core values of the institute be their watch words in all that they do. Professor Alabi further advised them to eschew arrogance and learn from the experiences of others. He said the MBA (Master of Business Administration) Marketing programme had started at the School of Research and Graduate Studies adding that new programmes such as MBA in Petroleum Accounting and Finance, BSc in Information Technology Management, Diploma in Information Technology Management and Bachelor of Public Relations Management would soon be introduced. He said other programmes like a BSc in Health Services and Administration and MBA in Oil and Gas Management had been approved by the institute’s academic board and soon the National Accreditation Board would approve them. A total of 1,842 students with bachelor’s degrees and diplomas in various fields graduated. Out of this number, there were 729 diploma students and 1,113 undergraduate students, and these according to Professor Alabi, represent the biggest number of graduands in the history of the institute. A percentage of 6.59 of the diploma holders attained distinction, 4.31 percent of the undergraduate students graduated with a first class degree, 17.97 percent with second class upper, 56.42 percent with second class lower, 19.05 percent with third class and the remaining 2.25 percent with a pass. Betty Mould-Iddrisu, Minister of Education for her part re-affirmed government’s commitment to ensure quality education, saying it would not relent in supporting the growth of academic institutions in the country. She said government had great confidence in education and the benefits the sector offers therefore it would do all it could to support institutions willing to make that objective achievable. Mrs. Mould-Iddrisu commended management of the institute for their commitment towards the expansion of the school through ongoing massive infrastructural development. Albert Kan-Dapaah, Member of Parliament for Afigya Sekeyere West was awarded with a plaque by for his contribution in transforming IPS and the revival of the alumni association.