On the 29th, 30th, and 31st of January 2025, Dambai College of Education (DACE) successfully held a three-day orientation programme for the 2024/2025 batch of fresher students enrolled to be trained as professional teachers. The event was designed to immerse new students in academic expectations, campus life, and essential support services, ensuring they are well-equipped for their academic journey.
Day One: Introduction to College Life
The Principal of the College, Dr. Mrs. Benedicta Awusi Atiku, officially opened the event and emphasised the importance of teacher education while dispelling common misconceptions about the profession. She spoke with strong conviction that teachers are among the professionals who are well-paid in the country.
Attendees received an overview of the orientation schedule from Mr. Godsway Agbenyegah, while Heads of Department used the opportunity to introduce 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 Bachelor of Education programme and course selection. The Dean of Students, Mr. Samuel Abotoworo, gave guidance on the College’s institutional policies. A briefing on banking services was delivered by a GCB Bank representative, and an inspirational talk on the prospects of the Early Grade Programme was delivered by Madam Sylvia Richlove Nortey, Head of the Education Department.
Day Two: Campus Policies and Student Welfare
Day two of the orientation programme focused on familiarising students with campus regulations and support mechanisms. The session provided comprehensive guidance on counselling services, proper management of school property, and detailed hall regulations. 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 prioritised. Chief Domestic Bursar, Mr. John Amano, outlined dining schedules and meal quality, while Mr. Timothy Koki highlighted the benefits of regular physical activity to maintain good health and support holistic academic life. The Head of Security, Mr. Solomon Yacham, briefed the fresh students on campus safety protocols. The President of the Student Representative Council (SRC), Master Divine Nanija, finally briefed the freshers on the role and significance of the SRC in their campus lives.
Day Three: Safety, Health, and Religious Engagement
On the final day of the orientation programme, Rev. Godwin Gbadagba, the College Chaplain, clarified that only Christianity and Islam are officially recognised at DACE. A brief Question and Answer session allowed students to raise queries about faith and religious participation.
Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service provided crucial fire safety training, including guidance on hazard identification and emergency evacuation techniques. The Krachi East Municipal Crime Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police Alhassan Abdul Razak, shared local crime statistics and practical tips on personal safety, safeguarding valuables, and avoiding high-risk situations. Mr. James Dufeh from the Municipal Health Directorate educated the freshers on ways to prevent typhoid fever and hepatitis B, and encouraged them to fully participate in upcoming vaccination initiatives.
The comprehensive orientation programme not only familiarised the freshers with academic and administrative procedures but also instilled a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and community spirit. By integrating lessons from the 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
