The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) has appointed renowned Ghanaian entrepreneur and business executive, Ernest Ofori Sarpong, as the first Chancellor of the university.
The appointment, which takes effect on August 1, 2026, was approved by the University’s Governing Council at its meeting on May 26, 2026, in accordance with the provisions of the UniMAC Statutes.
Mr. Ofori Sarpong, who is the Chief Executive Officer of the Special Group of Companies, becomes the inaugural Chancellor of the public university established through the merger of the Ghana Institute of Journalism, Ghana Institute of Languages and National Film and Television Institute.
In his new role, he will serve as the ceremonial head of the university, providing strategic leadership, promoting UniMAC’s vision and interests, strengthening collaboration between academia and industry, and conferring degrees and other academic honours on behalf of the institution.
According to the university, the appointment reflects the Governing Council’s confidence in Mr. Ofori Sarpong’s exemplary leadership, extensive business experience and longstanding commitment to national development.
UniMAC described him as one of Ghana’s most accomplished entrepreneurs, whose career has been marked by visionary leadership and significant contributions to manufacturing, real estate, finance, construction and media.
The university also cited his longstanding support for education, youth empowerment and community development as key factors that make him well-suited to lead the institution as its first Chancellor.
“The University Governing Council, Management and the entire University community warmly congratulate Mr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong on his appointment,” the statement said, expressing confidence that his leadership would deepen UniMAC’s engagement with industry, expand strategic partnerships and enhance the university’s national and international profile.
A Chartered Accountant by profession, Mr. Ofori Sarpong holds a Master of Science degree in Finance and Investment Management from the University of Salford and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration at École Supérieure de Gestion.
Beyond leading the Special Group of Companies, he is a co-owner of several major Ghanaian businesses, including United Television, Best Point Savings and Loans Limited and U2 Salt Limited.
Over the years, he has received several national and international honours for entrepreneurship, corporate leadership and public service, including the Millennium Excellence Award for Business Entrepreneur of the Year (2025) and the CEO of the Year – Consumer Drinks Award at the 9th Ghana CEO Summit.
Mr. Ofori Sarpong also serves in several governance and advisory roles, including as Chairman of the Governing Council of Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School, Chairman of the EMY Africa Awards, Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the Millennium Excellence Foundation, and Chairman of the Advisory Board of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Ghana.
The university noted that his appointment marks a significant milestone in UniMAC’s history and reinforces its commitment to strengthening collaboration between academia, industry and society to drive innovation, excellence and transformational leadership.
Established under the University of Media, Arts and Communication Act, 2020 (Act 1059), UniMAC is Ghana’s specialised public university for media, arts, communication and related disciplines. Since its establishment, the university has expanded its academic offerings and strategic partnerships, including the launch of its PhD in Media and Communication in 2024, as it seeks to position itself as a leading centre for communication and creative arts education in Africa.
