Parliament on Monday passed the University of Professional Studies Bill, after a short sitting.

The purpose of the Bill, which has 32 clauses, is to establish the University of Professional Studies, to ensure integration and optimization of the academic and professional programs that are taught at the Institute of Professional Studies.

Before it was passed, it was taken through a second consideration stage, with the motion moved by Mr. Mathias Puozaa, Chairman of the Education Committee, in respect of clause 13(1), which was accordingly amended to include that there is a Chancellor of the University, who is appointed by the University Council. Mr. Mahama Ayariga moved for its passing after which it was read the third time and passed.

The Institute of Professional Studies was transformed into a tertiary institution under the Institute of Professional Studies Act, 1999 (Act 566). In September 2008, the Institute was granted a Presidential Charter that empowered it to award its own degrees, diplomas and certificates.

With the new status as a fully fledged public tertiary institution, the university was well grounded to offer diploma, degree and postgraduate academic courses simultaneously with programs in accountancy, management, banking and middle-level technician courses.

The transformation of the Institute into a public University will enable it to produce qualified professionals equipped with knowledge and life skills for the competitive business environment.

The Bill seeks to place the Institute on a higher level of professional and academic excellence in line with the global demand for quality education to reflect its current and other principal officers in the pursuit of their prescribed roles and functions, to ensure international best practice.

Mr. Edward Doe Adjaho, First Deputy Speaker, who was on the chair said official information has already been served that Tuesday being the eighth day of the passing of the late President Mills would be observed by the people of Ghana and urged the Leadership of Parliament and Parliament to meet and discuss what should be done tomorrow.**