USTED: University name changes are strategic, not political – Apaak

Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Apaak says recent changes to public university names are strategic decisions aimed at protecting academic independence, not partisan interests.

Speaking during the 4th Congregation of the University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (USTED), Dr Apaak said the government’s decision to amend the names of selected public universities reflects a broader policy direction to depoliticise higher education and align institutional identities with national development goals.

He stressed that the move should not be interpreted as an attempt to erase history or advance political agendas.

“These changes are not cosmetic, partisan, or incidental. They are strategic,” Dr Apaak stated, explaining that the reforms are intended to strengthen clarity of mandate and institutional purpose within Ghana’s tertiary education system.

He argued that names carry meaning and influence how universities are perceived both locally and internationally.

“Names matter. They communicate identity, mandate, and purpose,” the Deputy Minister said, adding that Ghana’s ambition is to build a skilled, innovative and globally competitive workforce anchored in strong academic institutions.

According to Dr Apaak, restoring original university names, particularly where previous changes reflected political figures, is part of a deliberate effort to protect neutrality in academia.

“This move is not about erasing history but rather depoliticising our academic institutions and allowing them to focus on their core mandate of learning, research, and service to society,” he said.

He noted that the amendments approved by Parliament form part of a wider education strategy that places skills development, technical education and entrepreneurship at the centre of national transformation. In that context, he said universities must clearly reflect their responsibilities through both identity and practice.

“It is essential that our institutions of higher learning speak clearly to their national responsibilities and international audiences,” Dr Apaak said, insisting that institutional focus must not be blurred by political symbolism.

The Deputy Minister maintained that the government remains committed to academic freedom and historical integrity while ensuring universities remain relevant to Ghana’s economic needs. “By doing so, we uphold the principles of neutrality and academic independence, and preserve the legacy upon which these institutions were founded,” he added.

He further emphasised that the reforms do not alter the core mission of affected universities.

Using USTED as an example, Dr Apaak said its role in skills training, TVET teacher education and entrepreneurship remains unchanged. “That mission is what government is committed to strengthening,” he noted.

Dr Apaak also urged university leadership and faculty to look beyond naming debates and focus on innovation, research and national problem-solving. “Government expects our universities not only to teach and examine, but to think, innovate, advise, and lead,” he said.

He assured stakeholders that the name changes form part of a long-term vision to position Ghana’s tertiary institutions as credible, independent and development-driven pillars of national progress.