The Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG) UCC, has organised seminar for postgraduate students in the University under the theme “Conscientizing Postgraduate Students on Critical Issues in Research”.

The President of the Association, Mr. George Sarfo, said the programme was aimed at addressing the challenges facing postgraduate students in their research work. He noted that the programme was also intended to find ways of helping postgraduate students to finish their thesis early.

The Dean, School of Graduate Studies, Prof. Ernest Laryea Okorley who chaired the seminar, stated that there have been a number of innovations in postgraduate studies in the University. He mentioned the increase in the number of student intake over the years; introduction of new programmes, modification in the number of years for MPhil and PhD among others.

Prof. Okorley advised postgraduates to attend research seminars to help them acquire the skills of conducting research.  He urged them to establish cordial relationships with their supervisors to enable them complete their thesis without delays. He commended leadership of the Association for organising an insightful seminar for its members.

The Vice Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Education,  Prof. Cosmas Cobbold, explained the importance of research topic and  cautioned that few words ought to be used but must be very captivating. He asked the students to get familiarised with the literature of their research work in order to bring consistency in their writing.  He advised the postgraduate students to always consider the genuineness of the information they want to present in their work, and also seek help from reliable people and friends.

The Director of Research, Innovation and Consultancy (DRIC), Prof. Samuel Kobina Annim, said some of the postgraduate students only place premium on acquiring certificates than showing commitment to the research component of their academic work. He said such attitude tend to make them dishonest in their thesis writing. “Research….. is about contributing to knowledge and to transform lives, therefore, if one’s research lacks honesty, it cannot affect both knowledge and lives in any way” he noted. He advised postgraduate students to be committed and honest to their research work in order to gain knowledge and contribute towards making positive impact in society.

Date of Event:Wednesday, November 14, 2018