Accra Technical University (ATU) and Abrantie College have launched Africa's first Higher National Diploma in Paramedical Trichology, creating a new academic pathway for students in cosmetology and specialised hair and scalp health.
The accreditation follows a partnership between the two institutions and addresses a long-standing gap in the academic progression of cosmetology students. Previously, students who completed National Certificate II had no established HND pathway in cosmetology to continue their education towards a bachelor's degree.
Following the accreditation, a delegation from Abrantie College, led by its Director, Dr King David Thompson, paid a courtesy and appreciation visit to the Vice-Chancellor of ATU, Prof Amevi Acakpovi, and members of the University Management on August 6, 2026. The visit was to thank the University for its support in developing the programme and to discuss the way forward.
Dr Thompson explained that the programme was developed after months of research and consultations involving Abrantie College, ATU and industry experts. It will provide students with advanced training in hair and scalp health while creating a clear path to higher education. He described the HND in Paramedical Trichology as the first of its kind in Africa and said the achievement opens the door for the development of more programmes in cosmetology.
Prof Acakpovi welcomed the development and stressed the importance of maintaining high academic standards. He explained that admission into the programme would be controlled to ensure quality, while applicants who do not meet the entry requirements could undertake a Pre-HND programme at Abrantie College to prepare them for the HND.
He also disclosed that plans are underway to develop a Bachelor of Technology programme before the first HND students complete their studies, allowing the pioneer students to progress directly to the bachelor's level.
The development is one of the outcomes of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between ATU and Abrantie College on September 12, 2024. The partnership seeks to strengthen training in fashion, cosmetology and related areas while creating opportunities for students to progress from vocational training to higher education.