Tamale: A total of 7,870 students have graduated with various degrees from the University for Development Studies (UDS) during its 26th congregation held in Tamale. Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, Vice-Chancellor of UDS, speaking during the ceremony, said the congregation marked not only the end of an academic journey for the graduands but also the beginning of their responsibility as nation-builders equipped with skills, integrity, and a strong spirit of service.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Al-Hassan stated that the graduating cohort comprised 4,396 males representing 56 percent, and 3,474 females representing 44 percent. He described the figures as evidence of the University's steady progress in narrowing the gender gap through deliberate policies, scholarships, mentorship programs, and safe-campus initiatives.
Professor Al-Hassan highlighted UDS's achievements, noting its position as Ghana's top-ranking university in Quality Teaching and second in International Outlook according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. He also mentioned the University's male football team as reigning world university football champions and UDS's participation in the University Presidents Forum in China.
The Vice-Chancellor also emphasized infrastructure expansion across campuses, mentioning new facilities on the Tamale Campus and a 500-bed student hostel at Nyankpala. He urged the graduands to uphold integrity and adaptability, carrying the UDS spirit of service into their communities and workplaces.
Mr. Ali Adolf John, Northern Regional Minister, commended UDS for expanding access to higher education in northern Ghana and contributing to socio-economic development, as conveyed by Mr. Abdulai Imoro Gong. Miss Victoria Boamah, the valedictorian, expressed gratitude for the support from the University and pledged that the graduates would apply their knowledge in service of society.