By Patrick Biddah
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has called for the inclusion of the education sector in President John Dramani Mahama’s flagship infrastructure initiative, the ‘BIG PUSH’. The programme, originally earmarked for road development, has a budget of GHS 10 billion.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Governing Council of Sunyani Technical University (STU) in Accra, the Minister stressed the urgent need for infrastructural development in tertiary institutions across the country. He cited his recent visit to STU, where he observed severe inadequacies in campus facilities.
In light of these challenges, Mr. Iddrisu revealed that he has formally proposed that the BIG PUSH programme extend its scope beyond roads to include educational infrastructure, emphasizing that technical universities such as STU require modern facilities to effectively train future engineers and professionals.
Additionally, the Minister disclosed that he has written to the Minister for Roads and Highways, requesting the development of a standardized road network across all tertiary campuses to improve accessibility and safety.
In his address, the newly sworn-in Chairman of STU’s Governing Council, Prof. Samuel Awuah Nyamekye, pledged to elevate the university’s standing in the higher education sector. He assured stakeholders of a leadership style grounded in openness, accountability, and diligence.