The Chiefs of the Asogli State have voiced strong opposition to the government’s unilateral attempts to rename Ho Technical University after Dr. Ephriam Amu, without prior consultation with key stakeholders.
The decision, announced in February 2018, has drawn significant criticism from the Traditional Council, particularly the Asogli State Council, custodians of the land where the university resides.
During a press conference held on Monday, April 22, 2024, the Asogli State Council expressed deep disappointment and denounced both the government and the university’s governing council for proceeding with steps towards the renaming without engaging major stakeholders. The lack of consultation was labeled as regrettable, ill-conceived, and disrespectful, failing to acknowledge the perspectives of those directly affected.
Representing the Asogli State Council, Togbe Adzi Lakle Howusu XII reiterated their strong opposition to the renaming, stressing its lack of merit and its disregard for the university’s established identity and legacy. He emphasized, “Our attention has once again been drawn to attempts by authorities of the Ho Technical University and the government to rename the institute to Dr. Ephraim Amu Technical Institute. The Asogli State Council wishes to reaffirm our strong opposition to the government’s decision to rename the university without consulting the chiefs and people of Ho.”
Togbe Adzi Lakle Howusu XII characterized the decision as “unfortunate, misplaced, and disrespectful,” emphasizing the importance of inclusive consultation in matters that impact the community’s heritage and identity.
The Asogli State Council’s stance serves as a wake-up call for the significance of involving local stakeholders in decisions of such magnitude, especially those concerning the renaming of institutions deeply rooted in the cultural and educational fabric of the region. It underscores the importance of respecting the voices and perspectives of indigenous communities in shaping the future of educational institutions and preserving their heritage.
