THIRTY YEARS OF CREATIVE EVOLUTION
Shaping the Future of Creative Technology
Celebrating three decades of excellence in graphic design technology, bridging the gap between traditional craft and digital innovation at Takoradi Technical University.
History
The Department of Graphic Design Technology was carved out of the former Fine Art Department in 2008. As one of six departments in the Faculty of Applied Arts and Technology, it has grown into a leading centre for skills-based graphic design education in Ghana. Over three decades we have equipped thousands of students with the technical and artistic competencies needed for employment and entrepreneurship in the visual communication industry.
Our Mission
To provide world-class technical education in graphic design, empowering students with the mastery of visual communication, technological proficiency, and creative problem-solving skills necessary to lead the global creative industry.
The Heritage Timeline
1994
The Foundationa
Established as the Department of Commercial Art at the then Takoradi Polytechnic, focusing on fundamental design principles and traditional printing techniques.
Historical Context: Founded during an era when hands-on craft was central to visual communication, setting the standard for technical art education in Ghana.
Core Curriculum: Manual Lettering & Drafting: Mastery of typography using traditional tools, grid systems, and hand lettering.
Analogue Printing Techniques: Hands-on instruction in screen printing, relief printing (lithography/woodblock), and letterpress.
Visual Art Fundamentals: Deep exploration of color theory, composition, illustration, and commercial drawing.
2004
Digital Transformation
The curriculum evolved to integrate Digital Imaging and Desktop Publishing, introducing our first dedicated Macintosh design lab. Shift to Digital Workflows: Shifted the department from manual artboards to computer-assisted design, keeping students aligned with global industry standards.
Key Milestones:
Macintosh Design Lab Launch: Equipped students with
industry-standard Apple hardware and professional publishing tools.
Desktop Publishing (DTP): Introduction of software like Adobe PageMaker, InDesign, and Illustrator for corporate layouts, publications, and prepress production.
Digital Imaging & Retouching: Integration of Adobe Photoshop into core modules for photo manipulation, branding design, and digital artwork.
Industry Alignment: Graduated a new generation of designers capable of handling advertising agencies’ rapidly growing demands for fast digital print and vector production.
2016
University Status
Transitioned into Takoradi Technical University. The department introduced BTech programs and expanded into Creative Multimedia research. Institutional Elevation: Following the conversion of Takoradi Polytechnic to Takoradi Technical University under the Technical Universities Act, the department expanded its academic mandate.
Academic & Research Advancements:
Degree Programs: Introduction of Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degree pathways to provide advanced theoretical and practical design education.
Creative Multimedia Research: Expanded beyond print design into interactive media, video editing, motion graphics, and digital communication strategy.
Applied Industry Research: Focused on visual communication solutions addressing local industry problems, cultural preservation, and corporate identity in West Africa.
Skill Synergy: Combined hands-on technical training with high-level academic research, producing versatile visual designers and multimedia specialists.
2024
Years of Excellence
Launching the AI & Design Ethics Lab and celebrating three decades of alumni who shape the visual identity of Ghana and beyond. Milestone Celebration: Marking 30 years (1994–2024) of pioneering contributions to tertiary graphic design education in Ghana.
Next-Gen Innovation:AI & Design Ethics Lab: Establishing a dedicated space to explore generative AI tools, digital rights, ethical visual communication, and automated creative workflows.
Emerging Technologies: Integration of UI/UX design, interactive prototyping, motion design, and digital brand management.
Alumni Impact & Legacy: Honoring three decades of graduates serving as creative directors, UI/UX specialists, agency founders, brand strategists, and educators across Ghana and international creative industries.
OUR LEADERSHIP
The Visionaries Behind The Craft
Dr. Mrs. Betty Faniyan
Head Of Department
Photography, Media Story Telling and Graphic Design
Professor Owusu-Ansah Ankrah
Dean of Faculty
Leading innovation, practical skills, and technology.
Dr. Eric Kwadwo Amissah
Academic Coordinator
Guiding curricula, schedules, and student academic success.