The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has held a special matriculation ceremony for 32 students from the departments and agencies under the Ministry of National Security.

The students have been admitted to the Master of Arts degree in Peace, Security and Intelligence (MPSI) for the 2021/2022 academic year.

The matriculants comprised 12 females and 30 males.

Speaking at the matriculation ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of the UPSA, Prof. Abednego F. O. Amartey, said the MPSI degree was designed to give students, “specialised skills to identify, analyse and respond to emerging and complex security challenges.”

He said the MPSI course offered prospects for research and innovative thinking to offer solutions to the myriad security challenges confronting the African continent.

“These myriad security challenges require reliable intelligence and effective collaboration of actors from various sectors to achieve sustainable peace and development.

“The Master of Arts degree in Peace, Security and Intelligence is timely, considering the recent discourse about violent crimes in the country, the dreaded COVID-19 global pandemic and the emerging threats of terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa,” the vice chancellor said.

Prof. Amartey said the students of MPSI degree would be “equipped with relevant skills and knowledge to perform their roles in an effective and efficient manner in addressing these emerging security challenges”.

The MPSI programme emphasises the use of advanced technological tools and modern security practices across the world.

In view of this, the UPSA has made significant investments in technological infrastructure to facilitate teaching and learning for the overall benefit of students.

In attendance were the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Barnor, the Registrar, Dr Koryoe Anim-Wright, acting Director of Academic Affairs, Mr Anthony Afeadie, faculty deans and directors of various departments of the university.