The University of Cape Coast (UCC)in collaboration with the University of Cincinnati (UC) has held a roundtable workshop to strengthen academic collaboration and expand opportunities for students and faculty.
The workshop, themed “Building Global Pathways and Alliances: Integrating STEM Excellence, Student Success, and Research,” was held as part of a three-day working visit by a seven-member UC delegation to UCC.
Discussants for the workshop were: Vice Provost for International Affairs, Prof. Raj Mehta, Executive Director of International Strategic Partnerships, Jenni Kim; Senior Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Littisha Bates; Dean, College of Arts and Sciences and a Professor of Chemistry, Dr. James Mack; Department Chair and Professor of Mathematics, UC Blue Ash, Gowribalan (Ana) Vamadeva.
The rest were: Professor of Economics and Finance, University of Cincinnati Clermont, Dr. Prince Ellis and Assistant Director, Faculty Enrichment Center, Carol Tonge Mack.
Discussions focused on deepening the long-standing partnership between the two institutions, with particular emphasis on multidisciplinary research, faculty exchanges, and joint grant applications. The UC delegation indicated its intention to strengthen ties with institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa, identifying UCC as a strategic partner.
Participants also examined the growing role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. They stressed the need for institutions to adapt to changing teaching and learning methods while promoting the ethical use of AI. Continuous curriculum review and equipping faculty with digital competencies were identified as key priorities.
Student welfare and success featured prominently in the discussions. The roundtable highlighted the importance of addressing mental health and psychosocial needs, strengthening counselling systems, and implementing inclusive policies to support first-generation and minority students.
The two institutions further explored ways of enhancing teaching and learning through project-based approaches that address real-world challenges. Participants emphasised the need to involve students in curriculum development and decision-making processes, as well as to bridge the digital divide to ensure equitable access to education.
Opportunities outlined during the meeting include short-term visiting scholar programmes, joint research initiatives, and summer research placements in the United States for UCC students, with pathways to graduate studies. Scholarship opportunities and the development of online academic programmes were also discussed.
The roundtable concluded with a renewed commitment by both UCC and UC to expand collaboration across disciplines, promote innovation, and strengthen global academic engagement.
The Dean of International Relations at the University of Cape Coast, Prof. Samuel Bert Boadi Kusi, presented citations to the leader of the delegation, Prof. Raj Mehta, and Jenni Kim in recognition of their instrumental roles in sustaining and strengthening the partnership between the two institutions.
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC
