Takoradi Technical University (TTU) has received national recognition for advancing inclusive education after one of its students made history within Ghana’s technical university system.

Andowa Ama Buabeng has become the first deaf student to graduate with a Master’s degree from a technical university in Ghana. She earned her postgraduate qualification in Graphic Design, a milestone widely celebrated as a major step forward for inclusive higher education.

Her achievement has drawn commendation from education stakeholders and government officials, who say it demonstrates how access to education can transform lives when barriers are removed.

Technical Adviser at the Ministry of Education, George Kweku Toku Oduro, described the feat as a significant milestone that reflects both the student’s determination and the importance of inclusive educational policies.

According to him, the success also aligns with government initiatives aimed at improving access to tertiary education for persons with disabilities. He referenced interventions such as the Free Tertiary

Education policy for Persons with Disabilities, which is designed to reduce financial barriers and expand opportunities for qualified students.

Beyond the individual achievement, TTU itself has been commended for strengthening its academic reputation. The institution was recently ranked the top technical university in Ghana in the AD Scientific Index 2025. Officials say the university’s stable academic environment and leadership have played a key role in its progress.

University authorities also highlighted ongoing efforts to promote inclusive learning. Since the establishment of a dedicated disability support unit in 2018, more than 170 students with disabilities have benefited from programmes including scholarships, assistive technologies, sign language training and flexible learning systems.

Vice-Chancellor John Frank Eshun reaffirmed the university’s commitment to creating an environment where all students can thrive, regardless of physical ability.

Speaking at the university’s 26th Special Congregation, where more than 2,000 students graduated, stakeholders emphasised that inclusive education is critical to national development.

Graduates were encouraged to apply their knowledge to solve societal challenges, promote innovation and advocate for inclusion in their various fields.

Government representatives also reiterated ongoing efforts to reduce financial pressures on students through initiatives such as the “No Fees Stress” policy, which aims to ensure that economic challenges do not prevent qualified students from pursuing higher education.

While acknowledging challenges such as staffing constraints, university officials indicated that measures are being taken to address them as the institution expands its academic programmes and competency-based training initiatives.

For many observers, the achievement of Andowa Ama Buabeng represents more than a personal success story. It highlights the potential of inclusive education to unlock talent and contribute to national progress when equal opportunities are provided.