University of Gold Coast names Baroness Arlene Foster to its University Council

The University of Gold Coast, previously known as Accra Business School, is pleased to announce the appointment of Baroness Arlene Foster of Aghadrumsee, DBE, PC, to its prestigious University Council. This appointment marks a significant step forward for the University as it continues to grow and evolve into a globally recognized institution.

Baroness Foster brings an impressive wealth of experience in governance, public service, and international relations to the University. With a remarkable career spanning various senior roles in Northern Ireland’s government, her expertise will be crucial in guiding the University during this transformative phase.

Throughout her career, Baroness Foster has served in several high-profile governmental positions. She was appointed Minister for the Environment in 2007, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment from 2008 to 2015, and Minister for Finance and Personnel from 2015 to 2016. In these roles, she played a key part in shaping policies that have had a lasting impact on Northern Ireland. Her leadership extended to her role as the First Minister of Northern Ireland from 2016 to 2017 and again from 2020 to 2021. In doing so, she made history as the first woman to hold the esteemed position of First Minister.

Baroness Foster’s remarkable service has been widely recognized. In 2022, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her exceptional contributions to public life. Additionally, she was elevated to the House of Lords as Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee in the same year, further cementing her legacy in British politics. Her work has been acknowledged through multiple honors, including the Chancellor’s Medal from Queen’s University Belfast, which she received in recognition of her outstanding contributions to public service.

The University of Gold Coast’s recent receipt of a Presidential Charter, the highest academic honor in Ghana, marks an important milestone in its journey. This prestigious recognition highlights the institution’s commitment to offering world-class education and fostering global leadership. The University has transitioned from Accra Business School to become a forward-thinking and internationally respected academic institution. This growth is a reflection of the University’s vision to not only educate the leaders of tomorrow but to also empower students to become change-makers who can address the complex challenges facing the world today.

Baroness Foster’s appointment aligns perfectly with the University’s goal of enhancing its governance with influential international figures who can provide invaluable guidance. Her experience in public administration and leadership will undoubtedly help the University further its mission of offering transformative education. With her contributions, the University aims to build a robust governance structure that will propel it to even greater heights in the global academic community.

As a member of the University Council, Baroness Foster will help shape the strategic direction of the institution, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Her wealth of experience in managing complex organizations, as well as her commitment to advancing education and social good, will be an asset to the University’s leadership team. With her guidance, the University of Gold Coast will continue to thrive, and students will benefit from an educational environment that encourages intellectual growth and global citizenship.

The University community is excited to welcome Baroness Foster to its ranks, confident that her involvement will further elevate the institution’s standing on the world stage. Her appointment demonstrates the University’s commitment to excellence in governance, leadership, and academic achievement.

The University of Gold Coast is a leading institution in Ghana, offering a wide range of programs across its multiple campuses. It is committed to academic excellence and fostering a global perspective, preparing its students to become leaders who can contribute positively to society. The University continues to make significant strides in its mission to provide world-class education, and Baroness Foster’s appointment will play a key role in advancing this mission.