One of the most difficult aspects of academia is a university’s capacity to admit and subsequently produce PhD graduates every four (4) years. It takes quality leadership, couple with the right administrative strategies, to provide enabling environment for PhD students to complete their studies and graduate.
When UPSA started its PhD programmes, the number of doctoral programmes was two, with a low graduation rate, until Prof. Raymond Dziwornu was appointed Director of the Office of Doctoral Programmes. With his effective leadership, discipline, mentorship, and enthusiasm, the story began to change for the better.
Under the tenure of Prof. Dziwornu as Director of the UPSA Office of Doctoral Programmes (ODP), and working in collaboration with the Faculties, the number of doctoral programmes increased from two (2) to eight (8). In addition, the number of PhD graduates increased significantly within his first year in office, clearing almost 70% of the backlog of PhD candidates. By the end of his tenure as Director of the Office of Doctoral Programmes, a total of 33 PhD candidates had successfully graduated, demonstrating his excellent leadership, results-oriented approach, and superior administrative style.
In June 2026, the ODP of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) honoured Prof. Dziwornu for his significant impact, dedicated service, distinguished leadership, and outstanding contributions to the advancement of doctoral education and institutional growth in the University.
The competence of Prof. Raymond Dziwornu demonstrates that he is one of academia’s greatest assets, especially in PhD mentorship.
Prof. Dziwornu is currently an Associate Professor of Applied Economics and a globally recognised Certified Governance, Risk & Compliance Professional. He has extensive experience in both academia and industry, belonging to several professional associations across the globe, and serves as external examiner to local and foreign universities.
He served faithfully at UPSA as Director of the Office of Doctoral Programmes, Dean of the Faculty of Accounting & Finance, Head of the Department of Banking & Finance, Research and Programmes Coordinator, as well as Hall Tutor.
During his tenure as Dean of the Faculty of Accounting & Finance, Prof. Dziwornu provided exemplary academic and administrative leadership that strengthened the Faculty’s reputation within the University. He championed academic excellence, promoted quality teaching and research, enhanced collaboration among faculty members, and supported initiatives that improved student learning and staff development. His commitment to high standards, professionalism, and effective governance brought a positive image to the Faculty and further enhanced its standing among stakeholders, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and institutional growth. He has achieved several incredible milestones at UPSA, and the future certainly looks brighter for him, as he exits the Office of Doctoral Programmes as Director to pursue further interests.
Prof. Raymond Dziwornu is highly appreciated by the many PhD and MPhil graduates he mentored during his tenure as Director. He possesses excellent team spirit, humility in service, and a God-fearing nature that has empowered many of his students to succeed. We wish Prof. Dziwornu the best in his future endeavours.
