Pentecost University College (PUC) is a dedicated institution. It is innovative and also instrumental in the total growth of its students. The institution is not only excellent in pure academics but also the personal development of its students. Many a time, universities turn out students who have limited knowledge about real life and living it. There are A-students who are deficient in life skills. A good degree or class is certainly not enough to give one a balanced and purpose-driven life. To wit: there’s more to life than just academia.

How does one manage his or her personal life in regard to relationships, finances, family, vocation, business, health and fitness, grooming among other factors? How does self-confidence affect a person and the fulfillment of his or her dreams/goals and also his or her purpose?

At PUC, students have the opportunity to take lifestyle courses like “Personal Organization” which is a personal development programme. This programme enhances the lives of students on a broader spectrum. For example, a student who has learned to build his or her self-confidence approaches studies (and life in general) with a bolder and a more positive demeanour. A student who has been taught the nitty-gritty of Time Management has the opportunity to shift his or her mindset about this resource (time) and how to effectively use it.

Also, our relationships affect us more than we are ready to accept and that’s why a student who is aware of the importance of healthy relationships can firstly, draw healthy boundaries and also live cordially with others both in school and outside school. If a person had familial issues, how would this affect their quality of life? If a student faced personal or familial financial challenges, how will this limitation be handled?

Can you imagine the consequences of spiritual barrenness? Why is it imperative to recognize God and have a personal relationship with Him? What is life without God? Undeniably, the level of one’s spiritual growth affects one’s quality of life.

And then there is an important factor about Purpose that can never be overemphasized. Without the fulfillment of purpose, a person is merely existing. Real fulfillment comes from the appreciation and unraveling of one’s purpose.

A compelling feature about PUC is “College Assembly” which is a gathering designed to equip students and staff with practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in contemporary workplaces or business entities. At College Assemblies, students have the opportunity to listen to and learn from distinguished people from varied fields who bring to bear experience and exposure. Also at these Assemblies, students have the opportunity to expose and harness their talents as well as their academic prowess.

Pentecost University College appreciates the importance of prayer and that is why every year for “Prayer Festival”, the university community comes together to lift prayers and supplications to God Almighty for wisdom, grace and guidance for PUC, the Church, Ghana and the global community. Prayer Festival is not only an opportunity to pray but it also offers a level of spiritual cleansing and growth as the university community comes before the Lord.

Anyone who truly understands the process of growth appreciates the concept of mentorship. At PUC, through its Mentorship Programme, students experience a one-on-one interaction with senior members of the institution and/or senior students in the matter of Coaching; Training; Support; Advice; Motivation; Direction; Personal Development. Essentially, the Mentorship Programme is impactful to the lives of the mentees.

At Pentecost University College, reading is an integral part of knowledge acquisition and growth, and that is why there is a university-wide programme, “Reading Week” to inculcate in the students an inclination for reading and an attitude of inquiry. Reading and researching fill gaps in knowledge coupled with the opportunity to discover new ideas; topics; features; and also expand existing knowledge. In essence, students have the occasion to dig deeper for their academic skills and work, and also broaden their horizons.

It is evident that the key to sustaining healthy relationships is to invest in it and at PUC, the “Relationship Summit” is the platform for students to learn practical ways to grow healthy and loving relationships. The health of one’s relationship invariably affects one’s productivity and for students, it is important that they are equipped to manage their relationships effectively to avert academic stress or failure.

These are some of the important features that are usually missing in institutions of higher learning. At PUC, there is an opportunity to appreciate life in its entirety: the future is made possible at PUC. However, the good opportunities that life throws at us are not per se shoved down our throats: we either accept them or we refuse them and deal with the loss. Good opportunities should be approached with an open-mind and all seriousness. What is the use of food if it will not be eaten?! Undoubtedly, when students make good use of these excellent opportunities, they succeed in life.

Conclusively, Pentecost University College is constantly introducing new ideas that positively affect the lives of its students and the people around them. Clearly, the institution’s vision to “empower students to serve their own generation and posterity with integrity and the fear of God” is not mere rhetoric but a true reflection of an honest institution with groundbreaking innovations.

By: Anita Annan (Assistant Registrar, Office of the Registrar)