The Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Professor Ahmed Jinapor Abdullai, has praised Archbishop Charles Agyinasare and his wife, Mrs Vivian Agyinasare, for their pivotal role in the establishment and development of Perez University College.

Speaking as guest of honour at the university’s 9th congregation ceremony, held at the Perez Chapel International headquarters in Dzorwulu, Accra, Prof Jinapor Abdullai described the archbishop’s contribution as “instrumental” in the transformation of what began as a Bible school into a fully accredited tertiary institution.

“The story of Perez University College cannot be told without highlighting the instrumental role played by Archbishop Agyinasare and his wife,” he said. “He has been central to the success of the university college since the era of the National Accreditation Board, demonstrating a personal commitment to ensuring compliance with accreditation policies and educational standards.”

Prof Jinapor Abdullai also confirmed the institution’s credentials, stating: “Perez University College is a fully accredited tertiary educational institution in Ghana, with all the rights and privileges that status confers.”

In his address, Archbishop Agyinasare, who serves as Chancellor of the university, called on President John Mahama and the government to extend greater support to private universities.

“While we commend the government’s progressive move to pay first-year fees for students entering public universities, as well as the pilot programme offering free education to selected private secondary schools, we urge you, Mr President, not to overlook the critical role that private universities play in Ghana’s educational landscape,” he said.

He noted that government universities, despite their excellence, are unable to meet the growing demand for higher education, leaving many qualified students without access to tertiary institutions.

“Private universities have stepped in to bridge this gap, providing quality education and absorbing the overflow of students who would otherwise miss out on pursuing their academic dreams,” he said.

Archbishop Agyinasare argued that, just as the government has recognised the importance of partnering with private secondary schools, similar support—through subsidies, grants, or fee assistance—should be extended to private tertiary institutions.

“Such an approach would not only democratise education but also help train the skilled workforce needed to support the government’s 24-hour economy initiative,” he said. “By investing in private universities, Ghana can enhance its human resource capacity, boost productivity, and accelerate national development.”

The congregation celebrated the graduation of around 150 degree students and more than 80 certificate students.

The university currently runs several undergraduate and certificate programmes, including BBA degrees in Accounting, Marketing, Human Resource Management, and Banking and Finance, as well as BA degrees in Communication Studies, Biblical Studies, and Church Administration.

The institution is set to introduce new undergraduate programmes, including a Bachelor of Arts in Missions and Church Growth, and a Bachelor of Arts in Family Therapy and Career Guidance. Plans are also underway to roll out professional short courses and Master’s degrees in Theology and other disciplines.

Grooming the next generation of leaders

Archbishop Agyinasare’s leadership credentials reflect in all his decades-long endeavours. He holds advanced theological degrees, including a PhD in Christian Apologetics and Practical Theology from U.S. institutions. He has received honorary doctorates from Shiloh Ecclesiastical Bible College, Vision International University, and universities in Europe and India. He was also honoured with Regent University’s Global Leadership Award.

He is the Founder and Prelate of Perez Chapel International, a Pentecostal network with over 400 churches in 16 countries. He pastors the 14,000-seat Perez Dome in Accra, one of Africa’s largest church auditoriums. He also founded the Global Charismatic Ministers’ Network and Perez University College. He hosts the annual Supernatural Empowerment Summit with delegates from over 47 nations. He is the CEO of Precious TV, a global Christian satellite channel.

Ordained in 1984, he trained under Archbishop Benson Idahosa and has preached in over 90 countries. His crusades often feature mass healing and miracle reports.

In 2007, he was awarded the Order of the Volta for promoting African excellence. He also received honorary citizenship in Houston, Texas, and was listed among Ghana’s Top 20 most influential figures in 2016. He served on the governing councils of Central University and All Nations University. In May 2024, he became the first charismatic leader elected President of the Bible Society of Ghana. He now champions Bible translation and accessibility in local languages. In all, Archbishop Agyinasare is a theologian, global evangelist, educational leader, media pioneer, and a national Christian voice. His influence spans church, academia, and society.