DACE Welcomes Freshers with Comprehensive Three-Day Orientation

DACE Welcomes Freshers with Comprehensive Three-Day Orientation

Dambai College of Education (DACE) successfully organized a three-day orientation programme for the 2024/2025 batch of freshers enrolled in the institution to be trained as professional teachers. The event was designed to introduce new students to academic expectations, campus life, and essential support services, ensuring a smooth transition into their academic journey.

Introduction to College Life

The Principal of the College, Dr. Mrs. Benedicta Awusi Atiku, officially opened the event, emphasizing the importance of teacher education and dispelling common misconceptions about the profession. She strongly asserted that teachers are among the well-paid professionals in the country.

Mr. Godsway Agbenyegah provided an overview of the orientation schedule, while Heads of Departments introduced members of their respective faculties. A historical presentation by Mr. Thaddeus Kokobina highlighted the College’s rich heritage, and Dr. Frank Awuah provided insights into the B.Ed. programme and course selection. Additionally, the Dean of Students, Mr. Samuel Abotoworo, led practical sessions on institutional policies, followed by a briefing on banking services by a GCB Bank representative. Madam Sylvia Richlove Nortey, Head of the Education Department, inspired freshers with insights into the prospects of the Early Grade Programme.

Campus Policies and Student Welfare

The second day focused on familiarizing students with campus regulations and support mechanisms. Sessions covered comprehensive guidance on counseling services, proper management of school properties, and detailed hall regulations presented by wardens. Faculty and Hall Administrators, including Mr. Anthony Mensah, Mr. Philemon Agbenyega, and Mr. John Bismark Teffeh, stressed the importance of safeguarding college assets and adhering to financial protocols.

Student welfare was also a priority, with Chief Domestic Bursar Mr. John Amano outlining dining schedules and meal quality standards, while Mr. Timothy Koki emphasized the benefits of regular physical activity. The Head of Security, Mr. Solomon Yacham, briefed freshers on safety protocols, and the President of the Student Representative Council (SRC), Master Divine Nanija, discussed the role and significance of student involvement in governance and decision-making processes.

Safety, Health, and Religious Engagement

The final day of the orientation programme began with an interactive review of previous sessions to ensure active engagement. Rev. Godwin Gbadagba, the College Chaplain, clarified campus religious activities, emphasizing that only Christianity and Islam are officially recognized at DACE. A question-and-answer session allowed students to address their concerns on faith and religious participation.

Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service provided crucial fire safety training, demonstrating hazard identification and emergency evacuation techniques. Security measures were further reinforced by the Krachi East Municipal Crime Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police Alhasaan Abdul Razak, who shared local crime statistics and practical tips on personal safety, including safeguarding valuables and avoiding high-risk situations.

Mr. James Dufeh from the Municipal Health Directorate educated students on preventing typhoid fever through proper hygiene and detailed the serious risks of hepatitis B, promising upcoming vaccination initiatives.

The comprehensive orientation programme not only familiarized freshers with academic and administrative procedures but also instilled a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and community spirit. By integrating sessions on security, health, and religious life, Dambai College of Education has ensured that its new students are well-prepared to navigate both the challenges and opportunities of college life.

Source: Graham Kofi Baldwin