I’ll restore original university-names renamed by Akufo-Addo -Mahama
Ghana’s Opposition (NDC) Leader, former President John Dramani Mahama has promised to reverse renaming of public universities by President Akufo-Addo. He made this known during ongoing “Building Ghana Tour” ahead of crucial 2024 general elections.
President Akufo-Addo’s administration initiated a process to rename certain universities in Ghana. The purpose behind this renaming was to commemorate and honor key figures who played significant roles in shaping the nation’s history, culture, and education system. This move aimed to refresh the identity and spirit of these universities, promoting a stronger sense of national pride and heritage.
Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo renamed seven institutions since he was sworn into power on January 7, 2017. Most Ghanaians are not happy with the President’s decision to rename old institutions which already had names. Many have wondered why the President is also renaming these institutions only after people from the New Patriotic Party tradition.
President Akufo-Addo first renamed the Flagstaff House to Jubilee House. That was the initial name given to the seat of the president by the then President John Agyekum Kufuor.
After he left office, his successor Prof John Evans Atta-Mills renamed it to Flagstaff House. At the time he argued that the building that was collapsed to put up the presidential palace was called the Flagstaff House and there was no need for the change of name.
When the NPP came into power again in 2017, they changed the name to the initial one by John Agyekum Kufuor.
The Flagstaff House is not the only facility renamed by the NPP government.
Find institutions renamed by President Akufo-Addo here:
1. Flagstaff House to Jubilee House
2. UPSA to Opoku Ampomah University Of Professional Studies
3. UDS Navrongo campus to C.K. Tedam University
4. WA UDS campus to S.D. Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies
5. Tamale Sports Stadium to Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium
6. Ho Technical University to Ephraim Amu Technical University
7. University of Energy and Natural Resources to K.A. Busia University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani
Apart from that Ghana Institute of Journalism, School of Languages and National Film and Television Institute were merged resulting in the change of name to University of Media, Arts and Communication, UniMAC.
The renaming initiative was met with mixed reactions from various sectors of society. Supporters applauded the decision, emphasizing the significance of paying tribute to exceptional individuals and their contributions. They also believed that the new names would inspire and motivate students and faculty to emulate the values and virtues embodied by these respected figures. On the other hand, critics expressed concerns about the potential cost implications and the necessity of renaming established institutions with existing reputations and identities.
Amidst this debate, former President John Mahama has pledged to undo the renaming of these universities. Mahama argues that the renaming process was unnecessary and diverted attention and resources away from more pressing issues, such as enhancing quality education and improving infrastructure. He believes that the original names of these universities should be restored to maintain continuity, clarity, and institutional pride.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Mahama’s promise to reverse the renaming of universities will materialize. Given these divergent views, the future of this issue will largely depend on the priorities and policies of the upcoming leadership and the will of the Ghanaian people.
