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The Nursing and Midwifery Training College (NMTC), Tepa, has successfully organized a two-day capacity-building workshop for tutors to enhance their teaching methodologies and professional development. The event, aimed at equipping academic staff with innovative teaching techniques, digital integration, and effective administration of educational policies, brought together tutors, administrative staff, and key stakeholders.
The workshop covered critical topics such as 21st-century teaching skills, legal frameworks in higher education, IT-based assessments, staff development opportunities, and institutional planning.
Developing 21st-Century Skills in Higher Education
In his opening address, Principal of the college Dr . Albert Opoku underscored the importance of preparing students for the evolving healthcare sector by integrating 21st-century skills into the curriculum. He highlighted four key competencies essential for student success:
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving – Encouraging analytical skills to solve real-world healthcare challenges.
- Communication and Collaboration – Promoting teamwork and professional interactions to improve patient care.
- Digital Literacy – Introducing students to technological tools such as electronic health records and telemedicine.
- Adaptability and Lifelong Learning – Cultivating a mindset of continuous education to keep up with medical advancements.
He urged tutors to incorporate these skills into their teaching strategies to produce well-rounded, competent healthcare professionals.
Enhancing Teaching and Learning Strategies
Mr. Atta Poku Collins led an interactive session on practical teaching methodologies that enhance student engagement and knowledge retention. He introduced various approaches, including:
- Student-Centered Learning: Shifting from teacher-led instruction to interactive, student-driven learning.
- Blended Learning: Merging traditional classroom teaching with digital resources.
- Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Presenting real-life case studies to develop critical thinking.
- Collaborative Learning: Encouraging group discussions, peer reviews, and teamwork.
- Technology-Enhanced Learning: Using multimedia tools and digital simulations for an interactive experience.
He emphasized the need for tutors to adopt these innovative strategies to make learning more practical and engaging.
Opportunities for Staff Continuous Education and Grants.
Mr. Ofori Mankata encouraged tutors to take advantage of further education opportunities to advance their careers and enhance institutional growth. His presentation covered:
- Available Master’s and Ph.D. programs for nursing and midwifery tutors.
- Scholarship and grant opportunities for higher education.
- Application procedures for local and international universities.
- Time management strategies for balancing work and further studies.
He urged tutors to seize available educational opportunities to strengthen their professional credentials and research expertise.
Strategic Action Plan for 2025
Rev. Williamson Bonaventure Eshun s
The workshop also provided a platform to discuss NMTC Tepa’s 2025 Action Plan, which focuses on:
- Academic Excellence: Enhancing curricula, introducing new courses, and strengthening practical training.
- Infrastructure Development: Expanding lecture halls, laboratories, and student accommodations.
- Staff Development: Promoting professional training and higher education for tutors.
- Digital Learning Advancement: Enhancing e-learning platforms for remote and in-person learning.
- Student Welfare: Strengthening counseling services, mentorship programs, and scholarship support.
Rev. Eshun reaffirmed the college’s commitment to improving the quality of education and ensuring student success.
Legal Frameworks Governing Examinations in Higher Education
In a session on academic integrity, Mr. Jones Afriyie Anto outlined strategies to uphold examination credibility and fairness. He discussed:
- Examination Malpractices: Strategies to prevent cheating and ensure academic integrity.
- Student Rights and Responsibilities: Legal frameworks guiding fair grading and assessment appeals.
- Institutional Policies on Examination Administration: Best practices to secure examination materials.
- Consequences of Non-Compliance: Disciplinary actions for students and staff involved in malpractice.
Tutors were urged to enforce strict examination policies to maintain NMTC Tepa’s academic standards.
Leveraging IT for Student Assessments
Speaker: Mr. Thomas A. Asafo Agyei
The integration of Information Technology (IT) in assessments was a key highlight of the workshop. Mr. Thomas A. Asafo Agyei introduced:
- Online Examination Platforms: Secure digital assessment tools.
- Automated Grading Systems: AI-driven grading to improve efficiency.
- Student Performance Analytics: Using data-driven insights to improve learning outcomes.
- Digital Feedback Systems: Providing timely and personalized feedback to students.
He encouraged tutors to embrace digital assessment tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy in grading.
Tutors Share Their Experience and Takeaways
Many tutors who participated in the workshop expressed their enthusiasm for the knowledge and skills they gained.
“I have learned new and exciting ways to make my lectures more interactive. The student-centered learning approach and the integration of technology in assessments will significantly enhance the way I teach,” said one tutor.
Another tutor, who found the session on legal frameworks in examinations particularly helpful, remarked, “I now have a clearer understanding of examination policies and the importance of maintaining academic integrity. This will guide me in ensuring fairness and discipline in my assessments.”
A participant also highlighted the importance of staff development opportunities, saying, “The discussion on scholarships and grants for further studies has motivated me to pursue my Master’s degree. I now understand the available funding opportunities and how to apply for them.”
Conclusion
The capacity-building workshop at NMTC Tepa was a significant step toward enhancing academic excellence in nursing and midwifery education. In his closing remarks, Principal Mr. Albert Opoku expressed appreciation to the facilitators and tutors for their commitment to professional growth.
He emphasized the need for continuous learning, strict academic policies, and innovative teaching strategies to maintain high educational standards at NMTC Tepa.
With the insights gained, tutors are expected to:
✔ Implement modern teaching techniques.
✔ Integrate technology in assessments.
✔ Support student development and mentorship.
These initiatives will ensure that NMTC Tepa remains a leading institution in Ghana’s healthcare education sector.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
