UCC warns students of arrest, suspension and dismissal for unauthorised processions

Students of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) risk arrest, suspension or dismissal if they take part in processions organised without management’s authorisation, the university has warned.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, said the institution would take a firm position against the practice because of the danger it poses to students.

He noted that previous incidents involving unauthorised processions had resulted in injuries and fatalities, making it necessary for management to enforce its regulations.

Addressing fresh students at the university’s 2026 matriculation ceremony, Prof. Aheto said sanctions would extend beyond individual disciplinary action. Organised groups could be fined, while students found responsible for destroying or damaging university property would be required to bear the cost of repairs or replacement.

“These sanctions may include arrest, suspension, dismissal or in cases of organised groups, the imposition of fines where applicable,” he cautioned.

The ceremony also marked the admission of 17,807 undergraduate and postgraduate students, comprising 14,935 regular students — the highest regular intake in the university’s history — and 2,872 sandwich students.

The figures do not include enrolment at UCC’s newly inaugurated e-campus, where admissions are still ongoing. Prof. Aheto urged the new students to respect the institution’s regulations and take responsibility for their conduct, reminding them that “freedom goes with responsibilities.”