Dominion University College launches TEASE Evolution initiative

Dominion University College launches TEASE Evolution initiative

The Executive Chairman of Dominion University, Professor Felix Nikoi Hammond, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of university education in Ghana.

According to him, the current system does not encourage self-employment or individual innovations, as most courses are centered on preparing students for traditional white-collar jobs rather than entrepreneurship.

This misalignment, he argued, is a significant contributor to the high unemployment rate among university graduates in the country.

Professor Hammond voiced these concerns at the launch of the TEASE Evolution initiative, held on May 10, 2024, in Accra.

The initiative aims to academically empower students to become effective problem solvers after completing their education.

During his speech, Hammond highlighted the shortcomings of the existing university education system, which can be seen in two primary approaches: the majority of institutions adhering to conventional teaching methods, and a minority differentiating themselves by nurturing students with the requisite marketable skills.

He emphasized that universities sticking to traditional teaching and learning methods are producing graduates who lack the necessary skills to tackle challenges in the economy.

He contrasted this with institutions that are innovating by incorporating skill-based learning into their curricula, thus better preparing students for the workforce.

Professor Hammond outlined four main functions that a thriving education system must deliver: economic development, social development, cultural development, and personal growth.

He noted that while it is common for universities to claim they are developing future leaders, the reality often falls short due to systemic issues within the educational framework. “It is very easy for everyone to say we are raising leaders, it is also easy for us to say there’s a shortage, there is a mismatch between what the universities are producing and what the market is looking for, it’s all about the systems that we are using,” he remarked.

The TEASE Evolution initiative is designed to address these issues by instilling values in students that will help them build successful futures.

TEASE stands for Trustworthiness, Experience, Authority, Success, and Expertise. Professor Hammond emphasized that the initiative’s goal is to produce graduates who are trusted in society and ready to take on challenging roles.

“Dominion for a long time was doing what other universities were doing but we realized that it was not producing and giving the effect that it has to be. We have taken two years to study and to understand where we need to teach our camp, what elements will make the difference,” he explained.

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To achieve this, Dominion University plans to introduce new programs tailored to groom students to be trustworthy and competent.

These programs will include practical training and internships in reputable organizations, allowing students to gain valuable experience before graduation.

This approach aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with practical skills and experience.

Professor Hammond’s call for an educational overhaul reflects a broader recognition of the need for reform in Ghana’s higher education sector.

By shifting the focus from traditional rote learning to a more skills-based and entrepreneurial approach, universities can better prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.

This change is essential for fostering economic growth, reducing unemployment, and enhancing the overall development of society.

In conclusion, the call for an overhaul of university education in Ghana by Professor Felix Nikoi Hammond highlights the urgent need for systemic changes.

The TEASE Evolution initiative by Dominion University is a step in the right direction, aiming to produce graduates who are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the skills and values needed to thrive in a dynamic and competitive job market.

This shift towards a more practical and innovative educational model could serve as a blueprint for other institutions in Ghana and beyond, ultimately contributing to a more robust and adaptable workforce.

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