The Department of Archaeology and Heritage Studies at the University of Ghana is set to roll out funded short certificate programs.
This was announced by the Dean of the University’s School of Arts, Professor Wazi Apoh, during Day Two of the Second International Conference on Ocean Governance, which focused on marine resource management in West Africa.
In his presentation, Prof. Apoh revealed that the department will soon introduce short certificate courses in Introduction to Underwater Archaeology, Advanced Swimming, and Scuba Diving at the University of Ghana.
He explained that the initiative is designed to build expertise in underwater archaeology and support efforts toward ocean sustainability. It also aligns with the School of Law’s plan to open a new Center for Ocean Governance.
“I believe we’re beginning to focus our attention on this blue economy and, through the Department of Archaeology, really want to mainstream underwater archaeology. We can also achieve this in collaboration with and in partnership with other stakeholders. More importantly, I’m happy that the School of Law is about to open a center for ocean governance. The school is going to support the mounting of short certificate courses beginning from this period.”
He outlined the structure for the program, noting that it will run in three sessions over a year, after which trainees will form a core team capable of practical work at sea.
He added that successful participants will be certified by the University of Ghana, with instructors also assessing their expertise and adaptability.
“The short certificate courses are expected to begin in November 2025 and will run in three sessions: November 2025, June 2026, and November 2026. Each session will last three weeks, with participants including undergraduate students and others with swimming experience.”
“After these three sessions of swimming and diving, we will have a core team ready to begin practical work at sea. Certified instructors will guide the training, and the department will award certifications based on expertise and adaptability.”
The program aims to produce a new generation of expert underwater archaeologists, equipping them with the skills to engage in practical ocean research while strengthening Ghana’s role in sustainable blue economy initiatives.
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Story by Edward Chika Ahiakwo | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Michelle Lartey
