As tertiary institutions across the country are set to reopen from January 9, 2021, the management of the Kumasi Technical University says it will blend virtual learning with face-to-face meetings as they welcome all batches of students next week.
President Akufo-Addo in his 21st address to the nation on measures taken against the spread of coronavirus directed for schools to reopen at all levels after a long closure.
As some institutions are introducing some form of shift systems in order to be able to take care of all students, at the Kumasi Technical University, the Public Relations Officer, Dr. Charles Obeng Sarpong explains that the management has instituted measures to combine online learning with physical lectures.
“What we intend to do is that because of the soaring numbers of the free SHS first batch, that has completed, we intend expanding our admission drive. What it means is that the number of first-year students will increase, so we have put in place some strategies.”
“First, the face-to-face thing we are doing will take place in addition to virtual strategy so programs that do not necessarily require practical work like laboratory work among others will be done online in addition to the normal face-to-face thing. We are ready, and we want to assure the public and parents whose wards will be coming here that they will be safe because everything is set and their children are going to be in safe hands. Don’t forget we are also parents, and we will do what is best for our students”.
According to the University Authorities, adequate arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of students on campus to help curtail the spread of COVID-19.
Some students who were on the University campus at the time Citi News visited expressed mixed feelings.
“For me, a blend of the virtual and face-to-face is very good because with the virtual there were many hindrances as some people at remote places were not able to participate in mid-semester exams, assignments, and a lot more. With the physical aspect, we can approach the teachers when we don’t understand certain things. For me, it’s a great move for the government to reopen schools,” a student stated.
Another added, “for education, it’s okay for me but concerning health, I’m a bit scared”.
