The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has officially launched the Vice-Chancellor’s Community Initiative Programme (VCCIP), a strategic effort to strengthen the university’s engagement with the communities of Effutu, Ajumako, and surrounding areas.

A key highlight of the launch was the statement by Nana Ofori Owusu

“Unlike in earlier times when the primary function of universities was limited to teaching, learning, and research, modern universities have an additional obligation to render services to their host communities,” he stated, describing the programme as a testament to UEW’s unwavering commitment to the youth and communities that surround it.

The initiative was unveiled during a well-attended launch and fundraising ceremony at the Jophus Anamuah-Mensah Conference Centre on Tuesday, 25th February 2025. Designed to drive sustainable development in education, health, and economic empowerment, VCCIP seeks to transform lives through structured community engagement.

A Three-Pillar Intervention for Community Growth
The Vice-Chancellor, Stephen Jobson Mitchual, reiterated that the university’s impact must extend beyond awarding degrees.

“The true measure of a university’s impact is not merely in the degrees it awards but in the real change it brings to people,” he emphasised, adding that VCCIP reaffirms UEW’s commitment as a socially responsible institution.

The programme focuses on three key pillars:
• Education (Neighbourhood Academic Initiative Programme – NAIP): Providing mentorship, academic support, and career guidance for BECE and WASSCE candidates.
• Financial Support for STEM Students: Assisting economically disadvantaged but talented students to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programmes.
• Skills Training (Community Apprenticeship Initiative Programme – CAIP): Offering vocational training and certification in trades such as carpentry, masonry, and tailoring to enhance youth employability.

Stakeholder Support Signals Collective Responsibility

Demonstrating strong commitment, Nana Ofori Owusu and his brother donated GH₵20,000 to kick-start the fundraising drive and called on businesses and individuals to support the programme’s long-term sustainability.

Chairing the event, the Chancellor of UEW, Neenyi Ghartey VII, underscored the importance of partnership, inclusivity, and sustainable development. He urged all stakeholders to rally behind the initiative, noting that it is specifically tailored to uplift the people of Effutu and Ajumako through education, scholarships, and economic empowerment.

Redefining the Role of the University

The Vice-Chancellor’s Community Initiative Programme reflects a growing recognition that universities must not operate in isolation. As Nana Ofori Owusu highlighted, the evolving role of higher education institutions demands active community service and development partnership.

With strong institutional backing and community support, UEW’s VCCIP stands as a strategic step toward bridging the gap between academia and society—ensuring that education becomes not just a qualification, but a catalyst for inclusive growth and lasting transformation.