Hohoe: Mr Prosper Kumi, the Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), recently convened a stakeholder meeting to discuss the operationalisation of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) permanent campus at Fodome Helu in the Hohoe Municipality. The meeting aimed to foster a comprehensive and collaborative approach to facilitate the transition of students to the new permanent site.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Kumi emphasized that education has been a key priority since he assumed office and reassured stakeholders of his commitment to supporting the growth of tertiary institutions within the Municipality. He expressed gratitude to all involved for their efforts on the UHAS Hohoe Campus project thus far. Mr Kumi also voiced satisfaction with the discussions and committed to making significant infrastructural progress at the UHAS Fodome Site before the next general elections in 2028.
Professor Kodzo Gavua, Chairman of the University Council, appealed to the Assembly to consider allocating part of its internally generated funds to support the University. He urged stakeholders to advocate for the development of the Fodome Site and encouraged private investors and government agencies to invest in student accommodation for the University.
Professor Lydia Aziato, Vice Chancellor of UHAS, thanked the MCE for initiating the engagement, marking the first of its kind regarding developments at the Fodome Site. Meanwhile, Professor Frank Baiden, Dean of UHAS Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, highlighted that the University's growth is hindered by inadequate lecture halls and student accommodation due to the slow development pace at the Fodome Campus.
Madam Ruth Xorla Ayitey, Director of UHAS Works and Physical Development, mentioned steps taken to expand lecture rooms at the current site to accommodate growing student numbers. However, she pointed out that the poor condition of existing student hostels and facilities poses safety challenges. She noted that the ongoing Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) project is progressing well but requires a rate review to expedite its completion within the next 12 months.
Dr Kenneth Ahorsu, Fodome Traditional Area's Focal Person on Education, recalled the contributions of Volta intellectuals towards establishing UHAS, pledging continued efforts for the Hohoe Campus's development. Togbe Buami IX, representing the Paramount Chief of Gbi Traditional Area, commended stakeholders for their dedication and urged perseverance in operationalising the University at the Fodome Site within the next 12 to 24 months.
Togbe Adze II, representing the Paramount Chief of Fodome Traditional Area, assured stakeholders of full cooperation from the Area to realize the Site's potential. Stakeholders appealed to the government, through the MCE, for tangible commitments at the main campus site to initiate university operations within a year or two.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a Joint UHAS Hohoe Campus Development Stakeholders Committee. This committee will ensure sustained commitment to developing the UHAS Hohoe Campus at Fodome-Helu, involving collaboration between UHAS Management, the government, the Hohoe Municipal Assembly, and the Gbi and Fodome Traditional Areas.