On Thursday, January 22, 2026, Ho Technical University (HTU) unveiled busts of five of its past leaders to immortalise their contributions to the institution’s progress from its establishment as a Technical Institute in 1968, through its Polytechnic phase, to its current status as a Technical University.
The colourful ceremony, graced by the honourees and their families, Management, Faculty and Staff celebrated decades of visionary leadership and resilience.
Mr. James Yao Vodzi (Principal, 1980–1986)
The late Mr. Vodzi was the last Principal of HTU’s second cycle era. His tenure marked the transformation of Ho Technical Institute into a Polytechnic in 1986. He prioritized student welfare, spearheaded farming initiatives to support feeding, introduced the cafeteria system, and relocated the library to a larger space. He also championed sports and debate competitions, fostered staff development, and established a technical primary school. His bust was mounted in front of the University’s Vodzi Hall of Residence, linking his legacy directly to the student community.
Dr. George Mawusi Afeti (Principal, 1993–2006)
Dr. Afeti guided then Ho Polytechnic through its early tertiary era with vision and innovation. He expanded academic programmes, pioneered Ghana’s first HND in Hotel, Catering and Institutional Management, and introduced BTech degrees in Hospitality, Tourism, and Engineering. His tenure saw major infrastructural developments, including the Auditorium Complex, classroom blocks, hostels, and Volta Premier FM. He also produced the institution’s first Strategic Plan, cementing HTU’s national prominence.
Dr. Komla Agbeko Dzisi (Principal/Rector, 2006–2010)
The late Dr. Dzisi focused on human capital development, sponsoring staff for postgraduate studies and introducing the BTech Agricultural Engineering programme. He strengthened international cooperation, notably through JICA, and encouraged student innovation via the Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) programme, which won national and international recognition. His tenure also saw the commencement of key projects such as the Rector’s Residence, staff flats, and a major classroom block.
Dr. Jakpasu Victor Kofi Afun (Rector, 2010–2014)
Dr. Afun consolidated reforms and strengthened welfare systems. He introduced counselling services, invested in sports facilities, and supported staff development through TALIF and UFFIC projects. His decentralization initiatives empowered Deans and led to the creation of the Dean of Students Fund, which continues to support needy but brilliant students. His leadership bridged the gap between consolidation and transformation, preparing the Polytechnic for its transition into a Technical University.
Prof. Emmanuel Kojo Sakyi (Rector, 2014–2018)
Prof. Sakyi steered the institution through its transition from Polytechnic to Technical University. He established the School of Graduate Studies and introduced Ghana’s first MTech programmes in Engineering and Applied Sciences. He promoted staff doctoral training, launched the African Journal of Technical Education and Management (AJTEM), and enhanced institutional visibility with newsletters and research centres. His tenure also marked HTU’s Golden Jubilee in 2018, celebrated with a commemorative entrance gate and expanded green spaces.
The rolls of honour unveiled alongside the busts chronicled HTU’s leadership journey, featuring past heads, Secretaries/Registrars, Vice Principals/Rectors, and Governing Council Chairpersons. Families of the late Mr. Vodzi and Dr. Dzisi received the honours on their behalf, adding a solemn touch to the celebrations.
Chairperson of the University Governing Council, Prof. Smile Gavua Dzisi, who chaired the ceremony, praised the past leaders for their courage and clarity, noting that “in seasons of adversity they offered direction, in moments of challenge they chose courage, and in times of transition they provided a steady hand.”