Universities must be more relevant, responsive, innovative – Dr Mumuni

Universities must become more relevant, responsive, and innovative to meet changing societal demands, Dr. Zakari Mumuni has said.

Dr Mumuni made the call at the inauguration of the Advisory Board of the College of Humanities at the University of Ghana, stressing the need for institutions to adapt to evolving expectations.

“The evolving expectations of society require universities to demonstrate greater relevance, responsiveness, and innovation in teaching, research, and community engagement,” he said.

According to him, universities must go beyond their traditional roles and actively contribute to national development by producing graduates equipped with practical and intellectual skills.

He explained that higher education institutions play a critical role in shaping the human capital required to drive economic and social transformation, adding that innovation must be central to their operations.

Dr Mumuni noted that the newly inaugurated Advisory Board would support the College of Humanities in responding to these challenges by providing strategic insights and guidance.

“In this regard, the Advisory Board will serve as a strategic partner, supporting the College in its efforts to remain impactful and forward-looking,” he stated.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Dr Mumuni described his appointment as both an honour and a responsibility to contribute to the growth of the University.

“Standing here today, I see myself not only as an appointee, but as someone shaped by this University. This role, therefore, is more than a mandate; it is a responsibility to support the continued growth and strength of the institution that has influenced so many of us,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to the University Council and Management for the confidence reposed in the Board.

“On behalf of my colleagues on the Advisory Board, I wish to express our sincere appreciation to the University Council and Management for the confidence placed in us to serve this distinguished College,” he added.

Dr Mumuni reiterated the Board’s commitment to working closely with the College’s leadership to sustain academic excellence and ensure that its programmes remain relevant in a rapidly changing global environment.

The inauguration of the Advisory Board forms part of efforts by the University of Ghana to strengthen governance and align academic programmes with national and global development priorities.