Accra, Feb. 12, GNA – Ghana Telecom University (GTUC) has been adjudged the Best Telecommunication University in Africa for 2011 by the Africa-India Partnership Summit Le Matinal Educational Excellence Awards.

The award, which is the highest honour given to individuals and institutions that have surpassed several levels of excellence and emerged role models of exemplary leadership in the educational sector in Africa are not for profit oriented bodies or institutions.

This was made known at the 10th Matriculation of the GTUC at the weekend in Accra where 301 students were admitted to pursue diploma and various degree programmes.

Dr Darkwa urged the matriculants to apply themselves to diligent study, hardwork and self-sacrifice to meet the challenges of the new knowledge-based and network economy.

“The expectation is that you will use what you learn here to make a difference in the lives of the people of this country and beyond, to help the people of this country become prosperous and healthy,” he said.

Dr Darkwa said Ghana’s future, in particular, and the African continent in general, depended on the willingness to harness new information and communication technologies to advance development.

"This new economy needs large numbers of scientists, engineers, technologists, entrepreneurs and many technical specialists to support the new global businesses and industries,” he said.

In an "Expectations of Matriculation Class speech" read by Master Vincent Kwashie, a level 100 student, applauded the contributions made by the President and academic staff for winning the prestigious award adding, they have succeeded in “bringing the name of the university into the international domain.”

He appealed to the University Council to build more hostels, a bigger library complex and spacious classrooms.