Director of the Institute of Distance Learning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof. Matthew Glover Addo has revealed the intention of the university to revise its calendar to suit the various work schedules of its distant learners.

“The academic board of the university has graciously approved that the institute be allowed to run its approved calendar during staff industrial actions.

“This is in view of the level of convenience and flexibility the majority of students in the institute need since they are professionals or in the working class and are consequently, committed to their employer’s regulations.

“Some of the students also use the approved calendar of the institute to schedule their personal programs including marriages, annual leaves, vacation, funerals and even when to get pregnant.

“Therefore, any shift in the calendar of the institute along the way negatively affect these personal plans.

“In view of this the institute put up a strong case and thank God it was approved so that the institute is allowed to run its activities in accordance with its approved calendar in spite of any disturbance in the academic calendar resulting from industrial action by staff,” he said.

He was speaking at the 57^th congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) graduation ceremony.

He also encouraged the students to further their studies with the institute.

“I inform our granduands this morning that sale of forms for the institute diploma, undergraduate that is top up and postgraduate programs are still ongoing. The deadline was extended so that all graduands take advantage after graduating and receiving their certificates.

“In view of this I urge you all to take advantage of the one-year postgraduate programs to obtain your master’s degree. As you know the demands of the 21^st century workplaces are so dynamic that it takes those who continuously learn to be able to keep pace and remain relevant,” he said.

Senior Grounds Operation Officer at Africa World Airlines, Mr. Musa Abdullai urged the graduates to foster healthy relationships with their colleagues.

“Connect or network with your mates, staff and even with people out there. Banish the perception that some lecturers are wicked and don’t want your development. Please go back and tap into their knowledge and experiences,” he said.