GTEC clarifies: Accredited universities can still have unapproved distance learning centres – here's why
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has moved to correct widespread misinformation circulating about the status of distance learning programmes offered by public universities, clarifying that it has not declared any of the country's major tertiary institutions as "unapproved places to pursue tertiary education."
In a detailed statement issued over the weekend, GTEC addressed public confusion following earlier communications that had sparked concerns among prospective students and parents regarding distance learning centres operated by the University of Education, Winneba; University of Cape Coast; University for Development Studies; and the University of Ghana.
No declaration of unapproved status
Contrary to misinformation being shared on social media and other platforms, GTEC has not declared the distance learning programmes of these four universities as unapproved. The commission emphasised that these institutions remain duly accredited, and their distance learning programmes, where properly situated and resourced, are recognised by GTEC.
Accreditation is campus-specific
However, the commission stressed a critical point that many prospective students have overlooked: accreditation, including for distance learning, is campus-specific and location-dependent. Approval is not blanket or transferable.
Each study centre must meet minimum standards regarding infrastructure, staffing, library facilities, ICT resources, and learner support services. A centre operating without specific approval from GTEC, even if affiliated with an accredited parent university, is not automatically recognised.
Areas of greatest concern
GTEC identified three areas where unapproved distance learning activities have proliferated most concerningly. These include secondary schools where facilities are inadequate for tertiary-level distance education; training centres of various companies that often lack proper academic oversight and resources; and churches and similar makeshift venues that do not meet the required standards for tertiary learning environments.
The commission made it clear that these locations, unless specifically evaluated and granted approval by GTEC, are not authorised to host distance learning centres for any public university's academic programmes.
GTEC's position on distance learning
The commission reaffirmed its full support for distance learning as a viable and strategic mode of tertiary education delivery, provided it meets necessary dynamics including appropriate physical and digital infrastructure, qualified facilitators and academic support systems, robust quality assurance mechanisms, and approval of each study centre location by GTEC.
Institutions have been encouraged to regularise their distance learning centres by submitting them for inspection and approval.
Public advisory
GTEC urged prospective students and the general public to verify the approval status of any distance learning centre directly with the commission or the relevant university's distance education directorate, warning against reliance on unverified claims or social media summaries.
The clarification will come as a relief to thousands of students enrolled in distance learning programmes across the country, while also serving as a warning to institutions operating unauthorised centres in substandard facilities.
