By GBC,Jones Anlimah

Copyright gbcghanaonline

By Jones Anlimah

The Evangelical Presbyterian College of Education, Amedzofe, has held its 17th Congregation, urging educators and stakeholders to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool to improve teaching and learning while maintaining the College’s legacy of nearly eight decades of quality teacher education.

The event brought together government officials, educationists, alumni, and traditional authorities to celebrate the achievements of 353 graduating students. A total of 266 graduates completed Bachelor of Education in Junior High School Education, while 69 pursued Primary Education. For the first time in the College’s history, 27 students graduated with First Class Honours. The majority, 297, obtained Second Class Upper, while 29 earned Second Class Lower.

Principal of the College, Dr. Dickson Tsey, acknowledged the mentoring role of the University of Ghana, Legon, and described the results as “stellar,” noting it marked a significant improvement from the 10 First Class Honours recorded last year. He credited the performance to the dedication of the College’s lecturers and commended them for their commitment.

He outlined major developments, including the completion of a new six-unit, two-bedroom staff flat funded through internally generated resources, and the establishment of a fully equipped early-grade resource centre in collaboration with the Sabre Education Foundation.

Despite these gains, Dr. Tsey expressed concern over the lack of key infrastructure, noting that official events such as matriculation and graduation are still held outdoors. “An auditorium is not a luxury but a core academic asset,” he stressed, appealing to government, NGOs, and alumni to support the construction of an ultramodern auditorium.

Dr. Harry Agbanu, Chairman of the UPSA Governing Council, said the transformative impact of AI on education cannot be overemphasized. “Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant concept reserved for tech giants in Silicon Valley. It is here and already making a bold entry into our classrooms,” he said. While highlighting AI’s role in personalizing learning and automating assessments, he stressed that “AI does not replace the teacher; it amplifies the teacher’s ability.”

The Ho West District Chief Executive, Hon. Prosper Francis Dussey, commended the graduating class for their perseverance and urged them to remain ethical and service-driven: “Your degree is a testament to your commitment to shaping the minds of tomorrow. Let your actions be guided by integrity and commitment to service.”

He pledged government’s support to address critical needs of the community and the College. He disclosed that designs for the Vane-Amedzofe road were near completion and that contracts would soon be awarded. “In addition, the District Assembly will provide a borehole for the College, while our Honourable Member of Parliament has committed to delivering a 1,500-capacity ultramodern auditorium,” he announced.

Some graduating students were recognised for their excellent academic performances, with Enoch Atigbor emerging as the overall best student. Some staff were also recognised for their long service to the development of the College.

According to management of the College, preparations are underway for the College’s 80th anniversary celebration next year, promising a historic occasion.

This year’s graduation represents the third batch since Colleges of Education transitioned to awarding degrees.