University of Gold Coast matriculates 600 into new Specialist MBA programme
The University of Gold Coast (UGC) has matriculated 600 students into its newly introduced Specialist MBA programme, marking a significant step in the institution’s postgraduate expansion and professional education drive.
The programme is structured to combine academic rigour with practical, industry-focused training, to produce competent, ethical and impact-driven managers for commerce and industry.
Speaking at the matriculation ceremony, the Chancellor of the University of Gold Coast, Bishop Dr Gideon Titi-Ofei, said the Specialist MBA had been deliberately designed to go beyond the award of an academic qualification.
He explained that the programme is professionally aligned with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), United Kingdom, positioning graduates, upon successful completion, to also qualify for the Chartered Manager status of the CMI.
According to him, this alignment strengthens the international competitiveness and professional credibility of graduates, while creating a clear professional pathway that meets global management standards.
Dr Titi-Ofei described the Specialist MBA as “a leadership formation programme for commerce and industry,” emphasising that it is tailored to produce managers who are not only knowledgeable but also practically competent, ethical and results-oriented.
He added that the composition of the pioneer cohort underscores the programme’s relevance to industry, noting that participants have been drawn from diverse sectors across the economy.
Delivering the matriculation address, Prof. Samuel Nii Odai urged the students to fully embrace the rigour of postgraduate study, uphold academic integrity and commit themselves to leadership that delivers measurable outcomes within their organisations and communities.
He described matriculation as both a privilege and a responsibility, calling on the new students to distinguish themselves as worthy ambassadors of the University through competence, character and consistency.
The matriculation ceremony was followed by a morning cocktail networking session, which provided students with the opportunity to interact with industry leaders from sectors such as banking, finance, marketing and entrepreneurship, reinforcing the programme’s strong industry orientation.
