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With 16 PhDs, Accra Institute of Technology shows the way to produce doctorate degrees in Africa
By Dominic Osei-Boakye
Birthed in 2009, started walking fully in the latter part of 2010 at a one block building surrounded by beautifully designed containers at the premises of the Civil Service Training Center and Government Secretarial School at Cantonments, the Accra Institute of Technology (AIT) has defied all odds and become a leader in producing PhDs in Ghana, one of Africa’s major centres of learning.
Once described by a Nigerian journalist as a “potter cabin university” with the registrar’s office labeled as a “two by four cubicle”, the AIT success story provides a model on Africa’s pathway to knowledge and skill development in a more globalised economy. And it is worthy of emulation.
Captained by Professor Clement Dzidonu, a world renowned Computer Scientist, backboned by eminent academics in the Board of Trustees (BoT) including Prof Edward Ayensu (Formerly of World Bank Inspection Panel) as Chairman, Prof. Ivan Addae Mensah (Former Vice Chancellor, University of Ghana) as Vice Chairman, Prof. Jophus Anamuah Mensah (Former Vice Chancellor of University of Education, Winneba), and Prof. Samuel Adjepong (Former Vice Chancellor, University of Cape Coast), the AIT has been built on a solid rock of knowledge champions.
In this league are also Prof. William Otoo Ellis (Former Vice Chancellor, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Very Rev. Ama Afo Blay (Former Director General of Ghana Education Service), Dr. Grace Bediako (Former Government Statistician) and Mr. K.S. Yamoah (Former Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange). All of these academic have helped AIT to lead the way in terms of production of quality PhDs in the country, and the rest of the continent to set the pace in knowledge engineering.
Through its partnership with Open University of Malaysia, the Accra Institute of Technology has produced Eighty-One (81) PhDs since 2016. This translates into an average of Fourteen (14) PhDs per year. This is unprecedented and a great achievement for a young private university like AIT. Considering the fact that the PhD per capita of Ghana is alarmingly low, the contributions of AIT in bridging this gap cannot be underrated. More importantly, the partnership has fostered the new direction of knowledge-sharing across continents to close the gap deep learning and development.
Did this Come Easy? Not at all! To offer, run and graduate students on an internationally benchmarked Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs in Ghana is by all standards a herculean task. As a non-religiously denominated or related private university which is school fees driven with no support from government nor any other organisations, running PhDs can be very expensive. After paying supervisors, external examiners and reviewers, PhD Research Committee members, internal and external moderators, etc, the university retains virtually nothing and makes no profit. This explains why most of the private universities shy away from this daring venture since it is not financially worthwhile.
Additionally, getting supervisors and external examiners to mentor these PhD students is another huge task. Running PhDs in special areas like Business Administration, Information Technology, Engineering and Education come with so many difficulties in attracting supervisors and external examiners who dully qualify to mentor the students.
However, AIT has surmounted this hurdle with collaborations with several internationally recognized universities with competent Professors who have been working hard to produce these PhDs.
Speaking at the 18th graduation of AIT, held on 17th December, 2022 at the ultramodern Knowledge City Campus in Kokomlemle, where AIT graduated Sixteen (16) PhDs at a goal, the President of AIT could not hide his joy especially having led his team to make this huge contribution to academia in the country.
He stated: “Mr. Chairman, I will need to pause here to comment on the historic nature of the 18th Congregation of this young and dynamic University. Today we are making yet another history in this country’s annals of private university education. Mr. Chairman, it is my great honor and privilege to announce that we are today graduating for the 10th time, PhDs who studied at this university.
“This major achievement of a university barely ten years old makes AIT the first private university in Ghana to successfully offer and graduate students on an internationally benchmarked PhD program. This is no small achievement if put within the context of the fact that the PhD per capita of Ghana is extremely low. Mr. Chairman, we can claim that we have become one of the leading postgraduate research institutions on the continent. I want to take this opportunity to assure you that we are confident that we will again be graduating more PhDs next year.”
He added: “The Quality? The quality of the PhDs produced by AIT is not in contention. As highlighted by the President in his speech ‘Mr. Chairman, I am delighted to inform you that, at AIT, we are mindful of the need to provide high-standard tertiary education and training not only aimed at producing qualified and highly skilled people to drive the nation’s development in the information age but also to produce job creators, with the requisite entrepreneurial skills and expertise to set up and run their corporations in various fields.
“Also, as a research university, our focus on cutting-edge research work through our postgraduate programs and research initiatives is geared towards supporting the nation’s science, technology, and innovation (STI) drive towards developing a modern knowledge-based and wealth-generating economy in the information and technological age.”
AIT’s milestones underscored why it was ranked the best private university in Ghana in 2018 and 2019 and was also awarded the Best Technology University in Ghana for the fourth year running by Ghana Tertiary Awards.
Quality of the PhDs produced by AIT is shown in the progress of their graduates. Currently, AIT has Pro Vice Chancellors in public universities who became Professors in less than three years after completion. 60% of the graduates have become Senior Lecturers, Associate Professors and Full Professors few years after graduation. The strict requirements by AIT for students to publish minimum of five papers in a reputable and ranked journal sets the foundation for this growth. The PhD Candidature system where students are mentored by the PhD Research Committee for one year instead of just one supervisor through series of presentations and the strict requirement to write minimum three chapters of your thesis within that period also contributes heavily to the success of these students.
In the last 10 years of the program, AIT has graduated PhDs who are on the academic and administrative staff of almost all the private and public universities in Ghana and a number of Nigerian universities. Given the high international academic standard of the program, more than half of our PhD graduates in academia obtained their Associate or Full Professor within three years after graduation. These are outstanding landmarks pointing to how Africa can close the gaps for deep knowledge and research as it gears into the fourth industrial revolution (4IR).
If anyone thought AIT is resting on its laurels, then such people must rewrite their notes. At the 18th graduation ceremony, thirty-five (35) students graduated to become PhD Candidates after completing the first three chapters of their thesis in the first year. They should be completing their PhDs in two years. This is coupled with a number of students who are going through their Post Viva corrections and the twenty (20) students who are preparing to submit their thesis for examination. Two years from now, it is estimated that AIT will graduate not less than forty (40) additional PhDs.
The Chairman of the AIT Board of Trustees, Prof Edward Ayensu summed it all up in his speech at the 18th graduation: “So far, we are proud to report that our efforts in all directions are proceeding according to plan. We can assure this Congregation, and all stakeholders, that we shall not relent in our efforts to ensure the full fulfillment of that vision”
Conspicuously, the Accra Institute of Technology is showing the way and will fill the PhD gap in the country and across Africa in no time.
My final message to students all of Africa, start your journey with AIT from Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD in Business Administration, Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Science, Education and Health and Safety.
Indeed! Your journey to the top starts at Accra Institute of Technology as it lives to its payoff as the University of the Future beginning today. Yes! In AIT, Africa has a chance to leapfrog; the milestones achieved by AIT in so short a while proved that point.
Dominic Osei-Boakye is Registrar at AIT
Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, restrained the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from taking “any administrative steps” against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited following its upward review of DStv and GOtv bouquet prices.
Justice James Omotosho issued the order following an ex parte motion filed by MultiChoice’s lawyer, Moyosore J. Onigbanjo (SAN), against the FCCPC, in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025. Justice James Omotosho gave the order after an ex-parte motion moved by Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, counsel to MultiChoice.
Justice Omotosho, in the motion marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025, ordered FCCPC not to take “any administrative steps” against the pay-Tv company.
The FCCPC had summoned MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd to provide explanations regarding the March 1 price review of its packages.
The commission directed the company’s chief executive officer to appear for an investigative hearing on Feb. 27, raising concerns over frequent price hikes, potential market dominance abuse and anti-competitive practices within the pay-TV industry.
The FCCPC also issued a stern warning, stating that failure to justify the price adjustment or comply with fair market principles would lead to regulatory sanctions.
However in the ex parte motion filed by MultiChoice’s legal team led by Onigbanjo, the company sought an order of interim injunction restraining the FCCPC and its officers from carrying out the threat against it, as communicated via a letter dated March 3, pending the hearing and determination of the motion for an interlocutory injunction.
It also sought an order restraining the commission and its officers from issuing any further directive or taking any steps capable of disrupting its business activities, pending the hearing and determination of the motion for an interlocutory injunction.
“An order of interim injunction restraining the FCCPC, its agents, servants, or privies from sanctioning or penalising MultiChoice (the applicant) in any manner whatsoever in relation to its price increase pending the hearing and determination of the motion for an interlocutory injunction.” .
Onibanjo, in his grounds of argument, submitted that Nigeria operates a free-market economy where prices of goods and services are not regulated.
He argued that the FCCPC Act and other enabling laws do not grant the commission the authority to regulate prices or require businesses to seek approval before adjusting the cost of their services.
He added that MultiChoice had communicated its intention to increase prices via a letter dated Feb 21.
He said that the FCCPC, however, in a letter dated Feb. 27, ordered the pay-TV company to suspend its planned price increment.
The lawyer said following the development, the company filed a suit on March 3, challenging, among other things, the FCCPC’s power to regulate prices or suspend its price adjustment.
He said MultiChoice, after filing the suit, proceeded with the planned price increase.
He said despite the pending suit, the FCCPC threatened to prosecute MultiChoice via a letter dated March 3 if it failed to provide reasonable justification for disregarding the directive to suspend the price increment.
In an affidavit deposed to by Gozie Onumonu, head of Regulatory Affairs and Government Relations at MultiChoice, the company argued that its subscription rates in Nigeria are the lowest among all the countries where it operates.
“For instance, the cost of the Premium package in Nigeria is equivalent to $29.81, while the same package costs $85.11 in Kenya,” Onumonu said.
The officer maintained that MultiChoice had the legal right to operate its business, including adjusting its prices when necessary.
When the matter was called on Wednesday, Onigbanjo moved the motion, praying the court to grant their reliefs.
The judge, after hearing the lawyer’s application, restrained the FCCPC from taking any “administrative steps” against MultiChoice pending the determination of the case.
The judge equally ordered an accelerated hearing on the matter and adjourned the matter until March 27 for hearing.
Running a business in Nigeria isn’t just about providing quality products or services; it’s also about making sure you get paid on time. Too often, business owners find themselves chasing payments, sending repeated reminders, and struggling with cash flow gaps. According to a PwC report, 48% of Nigerian SMEs experience delayed payments, which can disrupt operations, affect salaries, and slow down business growth.
But the real cost of these delays isn’t just the stress of waiting—it’s the uncertainty it creates. Businesses struggle to plan ahead, restock inventory, pay workers, or even keep the lights on. Without predictable payments, expansion is nearly impossible, and owners are left firefighting short-term financial struggles rather than focusing on growth.
If you’re tired of chasing customers for money, here are seven simple ways to ensure you get paid on time—without the stress. The seventh tip includes a newly unveiled tech tool.
1. Set Clear Payment Terms from the Start
One of the biggest reasons payments are delayed is because customers aren’t sure when or how to pay. Avoid this by clearly outlining payment terms before any transaction. Let customers know the exact due date, acceptable payment methods, and any penalties for late payments.
For businesses offering services, a simple invoice with clear terms helps. If you run a school, cooperative, or subscription-based service, structuring payments with due dates reduces confusion. When expectations are clear, payments are more likely to come in on time.
2. Request Upfront or Part Payments
Rather than waiting until the end of a service period to get paid, consider requesting a percentage of the payment upfront. This ensures that customers are financially committed from the start.
For example, if you run a catering business, you can require 50% of the payment before sourcing ingredients. Schools can structure fees into manageable installment plans to encourage parents to pay in advance. When customers have already invested in your service, they are more likely to complete payments on time.
3. Automate Payment Reminders
People get busy, and sometimes, late payments are due to forgetfulness rather than unwillingness to pay. Sending reminders before due dates can prevent this. Instead of calling each customer individually, use automated reminders via SMS, WhatsApp, or email.
For instance, a gym owner can schedule monthly reminders for members before their subscription renewal. Cooperatives collecting monthly contributions can send automatic alerts to remind members of upcoming payments. A simple nudge at the right time can make all the difference.
4. Reward Reliable Customers
Sometimes, the best way to encourage timely payments is to reward the customers who consistently pay on time. This creates an incentive for others to follow suit while reinforcing good payment habits.
For example, a school could offer early payment discounts for parents who settle fees before term starts. A business that provides services on credit could prioritize loyal customers for special deals or extended services. When customers know there’s a benefit to paying on time, they’re more likely to make it a habit.
5. Offer Discounts for Early Payments
Everyone loves a good deal, and small incentives can go a long way in encouraging customers to pay on time. Consider offering a small discount for customers who pay early.
For example, a school can offer a 5% discount on fees paid before the term starts. Landlords can offer a slight reduction on rent if tenants pay before the due date. Small rewards create urgency, motivating customers to settle payments quickly.
6. Enforce Late Payment Penalties (But Politely)
While incentives encourage early payments, penalties discourage late ones. Establishing a small late fee can push customers to prioritize your payment over others. However, the key is to communicate it upfront and enforce it politely.
For instance, a tailor can state that late balance payments will result in an extra charge per day. A cooperative can apply an administrative fee for overdue contributions. Many businesses use “grace periods” before applying penalties to give customers a fair chance. It’s about striking a balance between being firm and maintaining good customer relationships.
7. Use PaywithAccount to Automate and Secure Your Payments
Even with all the right steps in place, managing collections manually can still be time-consuming and stressful. That’s why OnePipe launched PaywithAccount two weeks ago—to help Nigerian businesses get paid on time without the hassle.
PaywithAccount allows businesses to automate payments, ensuring funds are collected directly from customer accounts without the need for follow-ups. This means fewer delays, predictable cash flow, and no more awkward reminders. By eliminating the inefficiencies of traditional payment methods, businesses can focus on what truly matters—growth and customer satisfaction.
Whether you run a school, a cooperative, a gym, or any business that relies on scheduled payments, PaywithAccount simplifies collections and provides peace of mind. Learn more at paywithaccount.com/signup.
In conclusion, late payments can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be the norm. By setting clear expectations, offering flexible options, and using the right tools, you can ensure steady cash flow without stress.
The most successful businesses don’t waste time running after payments—they set up systems that make payments run smoothly. With the right strategy in place, you can focus less on collecting money and more on growing your business.
National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Saturday destroyed counterfeit pharmaceuticals and other products worth about N100 billion at Moniya dump sites in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The Director General of the agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, who performed the exercise at the dumpsites in the Akinyele Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, said the affected products include, Analgin, controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg, among others.
Represented by the Director of Narcotics, Yedunni Adenuga, Adeyeye reiterated the commitment of NAFDAC to ensuring that food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water, and drinks are safe, wholesome, and effective for human consumption.
She said: “The products that were classified as illicit, expired, and banned were confiscated during a raid on three markets in the country. The recent discovery of counterfeit and other products in these three major markets in the country is mind-boggling.
“Our recent enforcement activities at the Idumota, Onitsha, Ariara, and Ezeuku open drugs market were mind-boggling.
“The discoveries made of the presence of unregistered products, banned products such as Analgin, and controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg, among others, which are part of the things making our country unsafe in terms of security.
“This operation could not have been made possible without the support of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, who graciously approved the use of over 1,000 security personnel, including the military, police and Department of State Services (DSS).
“Today, we are witnessing the destruction of expired, falsified, controlled, unregistered, and banned medicines removed from Idumota Open Drugs outlets. The estimated street value of these products is N100 billion.
“During the three weeks exercise, several suspects were apprehended. Further investigation is being carried out, and those found culpable will be sanctioned.”
Earlier, the Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Shaba Mohammed, disclosed that raids were carried out on three markets.
Mohammed described selling drugs in the open market as an illegal and punishable act under the law.
“It is a punishable offence to sell the drugs in an open market. Also, it is illegal for people to hawk drugs inside the vehicle, kiosks, and open markets,” Mohammed explained.
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