GCTU trailblazing ICT-driven higher education

The Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) has achieved a remarkable milestone with the matriculation of a record-breaking 5,128 fresh students for the 2024/25 academic year, four years after receiving the Presidential Charter to become a fully blown university awarding its own certificates. 

Under the academic year, the university received a total of 9,284 applications, with 7,468 students admitted and 5,128 enrolled.

The breakdown comprised 4,842 undergraduates —3,467 males and 1,375 females — 422 postgraduates made up of 405 masters and 17 PhD students. While 35 international students from various countries have joined the university.

This marks the highest enrolment and matriculation numbers in the university's history.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, at the matriculation ceremony at the University’s Tesano campus in Accra noted that, "GCTU stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in ICT education”.

He explained that mandated by law to train the next generation of ICT professionals, “this university is more than an academic institution. It is a hub of knowledge, innovation, and boundless opportunities."

Prof. Afoakwa added that, “Our graduates will also be able to use their skills acquired here to set up businesses on their own to become entrepreneurs or 'techpreneurs' as we call them in GCTU”.

Prof. Afoakwa also highlighted the university's physical and infrastructural expansion, saying that a Multi-Purpose Sports Complex and the renovation of the ultra-modern Main Campus Library had been completed.

He also pointed to ongoing developments, including an eight-storey Lecture Hall and Offices Complex, a seven-storey extension of the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and an eight-storey Hostel Accommodation under the Build, Operate, Transfer, and Payback System.

A New Students Study Bay is also under construction, along with the renovation of the Abeka Campus Library.

Exciting future 

Looking forward, GCTU stands as a beacon of transformative education in the country, empowering innovation and driving national development through technology-focused programmes.
Established in November 2005, GCTU has evolved into one of Ghana’s leading institutions, consistently setting benchmarks in higher education, research and industry collaboration.

The entrance of GTUC

With a vision anchored in providing globally competitive, technology-driven education.

From its modest beginnings, GCTU has grown into a globally connected, technology-centred institution, fulfilling its mission of meeting the demands of a rapidly changing world.

The University’s values are deeply rooted in academic excellence, practical innovation, global partnerships, and a firm commitment to making a meaningful impact on society.

GCTU’s journey officially began with its accreditation by Ghana’s National Accreditation Board in March 2006. By August of the same year, the University welcomed its first cohort of 350 students, marking the start of a trajectory defined by steady growth and strategic vision.

Over time, GCTU experienced a remarkable rise in enrolment, reaching approximately 7,000 students by 2017.

The University achieved a transformative milestone in August 2020 when it attained full public university status through the enactment of the GCTU Act, 2020 (Act 1022).

Today, GCTU operates under a dynamic governance structure, led by a visionary University Council and a strong leadership team that includes the Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Deans and an experienced administrative staff.

Together, they uphold the institution’s mission while driving innovation and adaptability in an ever-changing academic landscape.

At the heart of GCTU’s success is its strategic embrace of transnational education, which has positioned the University as a hub for globally relevant learning experiences.

Through partnerships with prestigious international institutions, GCTU has elevated academic standards and expanded opportunities for students.

These collaborations enable students to pursue dual-degree programmes, allowing them to earn internationally recognised qualifications while studying in Ghana.

Beyond academics

Beyond academics, these partnerships foster joint research initiatives, student exchanges, and projects that contribute to global knowledge sharing.

The University’s academic offerings are designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing graduates to address the challenges of a technology-driven economy.

Both graduate and undergraduate programmes span diverse fields such as engineering, computing, information systems, business administration, management, ICT and IT business.

By integrating innovative teaching methods with industry-relevant curricula, GCTU ensures that its students are well-equipped with practical applications to drive career growth to lead in their respective fields.

GCTU’s campuses, located in Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi, alongside learning centres in Ho, Koforidua and Nungua, offer state-of-the-art facilities that foster collaboration and innovation.

These campuses are equipped with modern laboratories, advanced technology and dynamic learning spaces, creating an environment where students thrive.

The accessibility of multiple campuses and learning centres highlights the University’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that students from all regions can benefit from its transformative programmes.

A defining feature of GCTU’s educational approach is its emphasis on practical training.

By integrating hands-on experiences with academic instruction, the University ensures its graduates are industry-ready.

Collaborations with key players in telecommunications, ICT and business provide students with internships, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to real-world challenges.

This approach has solidified GCTU’s reputation as a leader in innovation and practical learning, making its graduates highly sought-after in both local and international markets.