Ban of satellite on campuses: Education think tanks worried

The recent ban by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) prohibiting universities from utilizing senior high schools (SHSs) and other non-sanctioned locations for satellite campuses has sparked concerns among education think tanks, particularly with its supposed impact on technical university enrolment.

Two leading educational organizations, the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST)-Ghana and Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch), have voiced their unease, challenging the commission’s rationale that such operations directly contribute to decreased technical university admissions.

While acknowledging the impropriety of using unapproved premises, both think tanks question the established correlation with enrolment challenges in technical institutions.

They argue that the move to ban satellite campuses could inadvertently hinder access to tertiary education for many, suggesting instead that traditional universities be encouraged to develop more sanctioned satellite campuses.

Professor Ahmed Abdulai Jinapor, the Director-General of GTEC, highlighted concerns over the negative impact of the unchecked expansion of university satellite campuses, particularly those of chartered universities, on the development of technical universities.

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This proliferation, according to Jinapor, diverts potential students from technical to traditional university programs, as observed in instances like Bolgatanga Senior High School hosting programs from five different universities.

Dr. Peter Partey-Anti of IFEST-Ghana pointed out that the primary issue should not be the reduction of satellite campuses but rather ensuring their operation in decent and conducive environments.

He refutes the claim that the presence of satellite campuses negatively affects technical university enrolment, noting the distinct academic domains of traditional and technical universities.

Eduwatch’s Mr. Asare echoed this sentiment, recognizing the commission’s authority to enforce accreditation standards but questioning the drawn connection between satellite campus operations and technical university enrolment.

He emphasized that technical universities were envisioned to champion technical and vocational education, a goal somewhat diluted by the current enrolment patterns favoring humanities over technical programs.

Both think tanks are calling for a more nuanced approach, urging GTEC to reconsider its stance not only for regulatory compliance but also to facilitate broader access to tertiary education, thereby enriching Ghana’s educational landscape.

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