SIIMT University College held its second congregation in Accra on Saturday with the presentation of degrees and Diploma certif­icates to 21 students in Cyber Security, Data Analytics and Infor­mation Technology.Established in 2013, the school, affiliated with the University of Cape Coast (UCC), is strategically positioned to train and provide quality education for the next gen­eration of students to become IT professionals.Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Director General of Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof.

Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, whose speech was read on his behalf highlighted the impor­tance of partnership in advancing higher education and national development.He commended the institution for its strong foundation built through collaboration with GTEC.Also, He emphasised the importance of tertiary institu­tions providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle cyber threats, which was vital for protecting the country's digital systems.Prof.

Jinapor Abdulai noted that education was a powerful tool that enables individuals to drive positive change, innovate, and lead, going beyond just acquiring knowledge.Addressing the graduands, the Acting Director General com­mended their hard work, perse­verance, and commitment, which have equipped them to contribute meaningfully to the country and the world at large.He encouraged them to embrace lifelong learning, stay curious, and apply their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in their communities.He urged the graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills acquired during their studies to make a positive impact in the fight against cybercrime and to con­tribute to enhancing the country's cyber security, ultimately helping to protect individuals, organizations, and the nation as a whole from the growing threats in the digital landscape.Also, he commended the faculty and staff of the institution for their dedication and commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders, adding that their tireless efforts, have ensure that graduates were well-prepared for the chal­leng­es ahead.Fur­thermore, he emphasised GTEC's commitment to strengthening partnerships with institutions like SIIMT University College to ensure that tertiary ed­ucation in Ghana remains relevant to national development goals.The Rector of the SIIMT Uni­versity College, Dr Raju Sonavane, expressed pride in the graduates and institution achievements, high­lighting the challenges overcome since the school's inception in 2013.He asserted that cyber security experts have a vital role to play in protecting individuals and orga­nizations from cyber threats and promoting digital safety.Therefore, he urged the grad­uands to be agents of change, to take risks, and to strive for innovation and growth, adding that, they should pursue their dreams to make a difference in their communities.The Dean, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceu­tical Sciences, UCC, Prof.

Elvis Ofori Ameyaw urged graduates to use their skills ethically and responsibly, stating that Information Technology and Cyber Security were now core of the world's digital future which needed to be protected."You are graduating not just with degrees, but with tools that the world desperately needs right now, you are analysts of tomor­row's risks, the protectors of digital identity and the innovators who will keep pushing the boundaries of what technology can do," he stated BY CECILIA YADA LAGBA