Central University has officially inaugurated Professor Samuel Kwasi Dartey-Baah as its new Vice-Chancellor, marking the beginning of a new era for the institution.
Speaking at his investiture ceremony held at the university’s Miotso Campus, Prof. Dartey-Baah called on government to recognise private universities as equal partners in national development, emphasising the need for fairness in education policy, research funding, and inclusion in national strategies.
“We are not asking for favours; we are asking for fairness,” he stated.
“Private universities are not competitors to public institutions — we are co-builders of Ghana’s future.”
Prof. Dartey-Baah succeeds Professor Bill Buenar Puplampu, whose eight-year tenure was marked by institutional growth, stability, and significant academic advancement.
In his acceptance address, Prof. Dartey-Baah outlined an ambitious vision to position Central University as a model of academic excellence, ethical leadership, and societal impact across Ghana and Africa.
He unveiled five strategic pillars that will guide his administration—focused on strengthening alumni engagement, corporate partnerships, and fundraising for sustainable growth. Other key priorities include enhancing the university’s brand visibility, ensuring regulatory compliance, and deepening community engagement.
Reaffirming Central University’s participation in The Education Collaborative, a regional initiative led by Ashesi University, Prof. Dartey-Baah said the partnership would foster innovation and strengthen the university’s position as a hub of learning excellence in Africa.
“As a faith-based institution,” he added, “Central University remains committed to integrating spiritual values with global relevance.”
Touching on Ghana’s wider education landscape, Prof. Dartey-Baah highlighted the growing gap between academia and the job market. He called for reforms to make higher education more practical, innovative, and industry-aligned, warning that “we cannot build a 21st-century Ghana on a 20th-century higher education model.”
He urged all stakeholders—government, industry, and academia—to work collaboratively to build an inclusive and future-ready educational ecosystem.
The investiture was presided over by Pastor Mensa Otabil, Chancellor of Central University, who formally conferred the office of Vice-Chancellor on Prof. Dartey-Baah. Pastor Otabil invoked both academic authority and divine blessing, charging the new Vice-Chancellor to lead with service, humility, and faith.
Outgoing Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bill Buenar Puplampu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the University Council, management, faculty, students, and the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) for their support throughout his tenure.
Reflecting on his eight years in office, he noted that Central University now boasts over 8,000 students, a milestone achieved through consistent leadership and dedication.
“Central University is just three years shy of its 30th anniversary,” he said. “Today, we stand tall as a respected university, thanks to your commitment and the guidance of Council.”
Prof. Puplampu expressed full confidence in his successor and encouraged the university community to rally behind Prof. Dartey-Baah as he leads the next phase of growth.
With a career distinguished by scholarship and leadership in organisational development, Prof. Dartey-Baah’s appointment signals a renewed focus on academic excellence, ethical leadership, and national impact—hallmarks that continue to define Central University’s legacy.
