Perez University College, one of Ghana’s fastest-growing private tertiary institutions, has announced a raft of new academic programmes and institutional advancements, marking a significant stride in its pursuit of academic excellence and relevance in today’s changing global landscape.

Speaking at the university’s 9th Congregation ceremony, the Acting Rector of Perez University College, Rev. Dr Sylvia Owusu Ansah (Mrs), revealed that 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.

“As we look to the future, Perez University College is committed to expanding our academic offerings to meet the dynamic needs of society,” the Rector stated, adding that leadership courses spearheaded by the institution’s Founder and Honorary Chancellor, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, would also be launched to equip both staff and students with critical leadership competencies.

Other future programmes under consideration include Nursing, Computer Engineering, and Electrical Engineering—fields that are poised to address critical skills gaps in the Ghanaian workforce.

Academic Excellence and Growth

The congregation, which celebrated the graduation of around 150 degree students and more than 80 certificate students, also highlighted the university’s resilience in the face of global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Rector commended the faculty and students for their ability to adapt to remote learning and navigate academic challenges, stating that their perseverance “is a testament to strength and determination.”

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.

Strategic Partnerships and Research Focus

In line with efforts to boost research and international collaboration, the Rector announced a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Durban University of Technology (DUT) in South Africa. The partnership is expected to support faculty and student exchange programmes and foster research collaboration.

Additionally, the university will host its first international research conference in November 2025 in partnership with UPSA, Pentecost University, and Trinity Theological Seminary. Themed “Intersections of Religion, Mental Health, Climate Change, and Sustainability,” the conference aims to stimulate interdisciplinary dialogue and produce peer-reviewed academic publications.

Perez University College is also benefiting from a book acquisition initiative in partnership with the Berea Foundation. Through a Book Matching Fund, the institution will receive over 50 new books at half cost—an effort aimed at strengthening library resources for academic enrichment.

Institutional Progress and Challenges

The Acting Rector provided an update on the university’s pursuit of a presidential charter, stating that six out of the eight required benchmarks have already been met. The institution is currently awaiting a final report from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).

Infrastructure improvements were also highlighted, including the ongoing transformation of Block B into a modern hostel facility, aimed at enhancing student comfort and campus life.

However, the Rector acknowledged lingering challenges such as poor access roads to the campus, student recruitment competition from public universities, and the impact of the government's fee-free policy for first-year students in public institutions. He appealed to the government to consider similar support for private tertiary students.

Despite these hurdles, the Rector expressed optimism: “With the collective efforts of our stakeholders, we are confident that Perez University College will continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact in the academic landscape.”

The ceremony was graced by dignitaries including the Guest Speaker, Mr Samuel Nartey George, and Prof. Ahmed Jinapor, along with representatives from affiliated institutions and traditional authorities.

Perez University College operates under the spiritual leadership of its Founder and Honorary Chancellor, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, and is affiliated with the University of Cape Coast.

A Chancellor with leadership at the heart of his endeavours

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.