The School of Continuing and Distance Education (SCDE), University of Ghana, held a special engagement session between the Dean, Professor Olivia A. T. F. Kwapong, and PhD students of the Department of Adult Education and Human Resource Studies on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the School’s Smart Classroom.

The well-attended meeting, which drew about 90% of the doctoral students, provided a platform for open dialogue on academic, administrative, and welfare matters. Also present were the Head of Department, Prof. Inusah Salifu; the Head of UG Learning Centres, Prof. Isaac Biney; and the School Administrator, Mrs Regina Afari Boateng.

In her address, Professor Kwapong encouraged students to commit to the timely completion of their theses, use Artificial Intelligence responsibly in research, and take advantage of graduate assistantship opportunities that would emerge as the school introduced new academic programmes. She also suggested that future PhD orientations include a permanent “Remarks by the Dean” session.

During the open forum, students raised concerns about graduate teaching opportunities, supervisory assignments, thesis extension deadlines and clarity on the PhD comprehensive examination template.  Responding to these, the School Administrator highlighted the potential of new programmes to create academic and career pathways. The Head of Department also reminded students to keep supervisors updated, use the UG Sakai platform for progress reports, and consult the Graduate Students’ Handbook for examination procedures.

Closing the meeting, Professor Kwapong reaffirmed her commitment to supporting doctoral students in their academic journey and urged them to strive for excellence, foster collaboration, and maintain focus. The meeting concluded with a group photo and informal interactions between faculty and students.