Story by Esi Arhin
Department of Communication Studies under the Faculty of Arts- University of Cape Coast (UCC) welcomed new students on August 30th, commencing its 2024 Sandwich Communications Studies programme for postgraduate students.
The orientation ceremony took place at premises of the department on the UCC (new site) campus in Cape Coast.
This year’s incoming class is comprised teachers, media practitioners, clergy and public service officers, among others.
In his welcome address, Head of department, Prof. William Kodom Gyasi urged students to “put in their best so that they return to their places of work with the new knowledge acquired reflecting in the enhancement of their duties.” with respect to ensuing challenges given the limited time of the sandwich programme he said, “I know the programme is packed but we believe with the right level of seriousness attached you can excel. Most of our past students are doing well, furthering their studies elsewhere. A very well written term paper could land students PhD programmes abroad.” he added. “I wish you all the very best of the UCC experience.”
Department Registration & Exam Officer; Sandwich Coordinator, Mr. Theophillus Atram Nartey briefly explained the processes of his office and asked the students to be ambassadors of the programme, “We do not compromise on quality. We therefore encourage you to commit fully to the programme for the best outcome for your benefit and that of the university.” he stated.
Further, Dr. Daniel Edem Adzovie, coordinator for Graduate Programmes and Communication & Media Seminar commented, “Sandwich programme is a career-oriented programme. It is tough because just as the name implies, students eat so much in just a bite. Meaning, what is supposed to be done in eight months is compressed into two months. Irrespective of this, standards are maintained.” He also encouraged students to take care of their health and mental wellness, “Cape Coast as you know has a beautiful shoreline. Take short breaks off your studies to enjoy the breeze after a stressful week.” he said.
The ceremony also included introductions to other members of the department in their various capacities, Prof. Philip Arthur Gborsong, Prof Richard Torgbor Torto – Coordinator for the Writing Unit, Dr Jacob Nyarko – Internships Coordinator, Dr Rita Akele Twumasi – Communicative Skills Coordinator, Dr Wincharles Coker, Dr. Josephine Brew Daniels – Project Work Coordinator and Ms. Angela Amoah – Principal Administrator. They all took turns to pieces of advice and strategies to aid the students in successfully completing the programme of study.
A representative of the students, Mr Emmanuel Abekah Aidoo thanked the head of department and its members on behalf of his colleagues, “It is indeed a privilege to be admitted this esteemed university. We look forward to your support in steering us successfully through the programme. My colleagues and I are grateful for your time and resources.” he remarked.
The M.A Communication Studies at the Department of Communication Studies, UCC is a career-oriented programme aimed at busy career professionals in media and communication as well as individuals who wish to gain new knowledge in media/communication either for career switch or to enhance productivity in their chosen fields. It is a one-year programme run in two sandwich sessions usually in August to September each year. Application forms are usually available in the first or second quarter of every year.