The Head of the Teaching and Examination Unit at the University of Ghana, Frederick Yuorkuu, has advised students to exercise caution when selecting free elective courses.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive on Radio Univers, Yuorkuu emphasised the importance of avoiding core courses from other departments as electives, warning that failing such courses could significantly impact a student’s final grade point average (FGPA).
“You know, some courses are compulsory. So if you’re selecting a free elective, you may want to choose one that is actually an elective. Otherwise, it may affect you,” he said.
Yuorkuu explained that every course taken at the university contributes to the final degree classification—including electives. He noted that failing any course, even an elective, would require a retake.
“Whatever course you take in this university, it counts toward the award. It counts toward your class. It counts toward your FGPA—every course. If you score an F in any course, you’ll have to rewrite it. Otherwise, you may have problems—especially if it turns out to be a core course from another department.”
He also expressed concern about the academic attitudes of some students, pointing out that while some genuinely face financial and accommodation challenges, others fail to prioritize their studies.
“What I’ve noticed is that sometimes students get here and they are too relaxed. There are some with very genuine problems—you don’t have accommodation, you don’t have money, and you’re struggling—but you’re still in it. So that can affect you,” he said.
“But there are also those who focus more on the social life on campus than their academics. They end up failing. And honestly, not everyone here fought hard to earn the grades they came in with. You may see some very impressive WASSCE results, but once they’re here, it’s a different story.”
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Story by Anita Azawodie|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Michelle Lartey
