Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) has celebrated its 10th anniversary and its 6th congregation of student’s ceremony. Apexnewsgh reports
The ceremony attracted people from all works of life including friends and family members of grandaunts, Chiefs, and Queen mothers from across various communities within the Upper East Region.
Addressing the congregation, Professor David Millar recounted the humble beginnings of the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS), which he founded in 1990. With a mix of gratitude and emotion, he shared the pivotal role his wife Madam Lydia Mamata Bawah Millar played in securing the land for the institution even in his absence.
“My wife’s unwavering support and determination were instrumental in making MITDS a reality,” Professor Millar said, his voice filled with appreciation. “Her bold step in helping to acquire the land will forever be etched in my memory, and I am forever grateful.”
As he reflected on the journey, Professor Millar highlighted the significance of his wife’s contribution, acknowledging that no reward would be enough to repay her selflessness. “I leave it to God to continue rewarding her for her kindness and dedication,” he said with tears of joy.
MITDS has since grown into a renowned institution, known for its innovative approach to education and research. As a fully Ghanaian institution, it has responded to the government’s call for quality education, leveraging technology to provide open admission, tuition, assessment, and certification. Today, MITDS stands as a testament to Professor Millar’s vision and his wife’s unwavering support.
Professor Millar began, his voice steady and full of conviction, “today we gather to celebrate a decade of excellence in education and research.” He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. “However, we cannot overlook the economic challenges facing Ghana, which have deeply affected our students’ ability to pay fees and meet their financial obligations.”
In response to these challenges, MITDS had adapted its academic strategy, temporarily suspended undergraduate programs while intensified its focus on master’s and PhD programs. The institute committed itself to enhancing research and development and increasing its outreach to rural communities across the nation. “We remain optimistic that Ghana’s economic situation will improve soon,” he assured the gathering.
According to Professor Millar, despite the successes of the Free SHS policy, a troubling issue had emerged. Thousands of Senior High School graduates, many with excellent grades, find themselves without access to tertiary education, particularly those lacking Mathematics and English qualifications. In light of this, Professor Millar hinted that MITD was actively seeking innovative solutions in collaboration with various stakeholders to address this pressing problem.
Professor Millar further spoke about MITDS’s research accomplishments, particularly its flagship program, the Grass Economy for Northern Ghana. The initiative aimed to tackle persistent rural social issues, and it had excelled in several areas. Notably, the introduction of grass charcoal briquettes was revolutionizing energy use in northern communities, marking a sustainable shift away from traditional charcoal.
Speaking about MITDS cooperate social responsibility, Professor Millar also highlighted MITDS’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. They part-funded scholarships for students pursuing PhDs and MPhils and collaborated with GO NORTH MEDICAL OUTREACH to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities.
As part of MITDS’s 10th-anniversary celebrations, the institute donated 27 dual desks to Yikene Junior Secondary School and advocated for the reactivation of the Pwalugu Multi-purpose Dam, further demonstrating their commitment to community development.
As Professor Millar concluded his stirring address, the audience felt a renewed sense of hope and determination. They could sense that MITDS was steadfast in its commitment to providing quality education and creating opportunities for Ghana’s future leaders, embodying the very spirit of resilience and innovation that the nation so desperately needed.
Professor Millar’s excitement was palpable as he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief and people of Yikene, Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), University for Development Studies (UDS).
However, as he congratulated grandaunts for their individual milestones, he further admonished them to be good ambassadors of MITDS anywhere they find themselves.
Dignitaries from various universities, the Upper East Regional Minister, chiefs from across the region, friends and families of graduates, and Broos Institute officials from the Netherlands were all present to grace the ceremony.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
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