The Sri Indu Institute of Management and Technology (SIIMT) University College has held its third graduation ceremony in Accra, awarding degrees and diplomas to 50 students trained in information technology and related disciplines, with a strong emphasis on ethics, innovation and global competitiveness.
The ceremony, held Friday, April 24, celebrated graduates who received Bachelor of Science degrees in Information Technology and Information Security, as well as diplomas in Data Science and Cyber Security.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Augustine Ocloo, deputy director-general of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), commended the graduates for their resilience and sacrifices, while urging them to remain committed to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
He outlined key institutional priorities, including the careful pursuit of academic autonomy, aligning program expansion with available resources, and preparing students to compete ethically in the global digital space.
“Your success is built on sacrifice and community support,” he said, encouraging graduates to update their skills regularly and apply their knowledge to safeguard society. He stressed that employability in today’s market depends on adaptability and lifelong learning.
On institutional development, Ocloo noted that SIIMT’s ambition to attain academic autonomy and eventually a charter must be pursued deliberately and backed by evidence to maintain quality standards. He cautioned against rapid expansion without adequate staffing and infrastructure, warning that such growth could undermine educational outcomes.
He also highlighted the risks associated with digital transformation, particularly in mobile money systems, urging graduates to prioritize cybersecurity awareness, accountability and ethical conduct.
The rector of SIIMT University College, Dr. Raju Sonavane, described the occasion as a proud moment for both the institution and the graduates.
“I stand here not only as a rector but as a proud father who has seen you strive, struggle, learn and succeed,” he said.
Dr. Sonavane emphasized that education extends beyond acquiring degrees, urging graduates to cultivate discipline, humility and resilience as they transition into professional life. He reminded them that success is built on consistency and continuous self-improvement.
“Technology changes every day. What you learned over the past four years will not be enough forever,” he said, encouraging graduates to keep upgrading their knowledge and to use their skills responsibly to benefit society.
Valedictorian Isaac Ofosu Frimpong described the journey as one marked by perseverance, challenges and growth.
“We came with dreams and uncertainty, but we pushed forward stronger and more determined,” he said, thanking lecturers, parents and peers for their support.
He urged his colleagues to become leaders and innovators, adding that success should be measured by the impact they make on society.
In an interview after the ceremony, Prof. Sarah Darkwa, dean of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Cape Coast, underscored the importance of ethical conduct in the application of technical knowledge.
“They must be honest and apply due diligence in all their endeavors so they become a benefit to the nation,” she said, warning that misuse of technological skills could pose risks to society.
The ceremony concluded with a call for graduates to uphold the values of SIIMT and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
By Kingsley Asiedu
