The University for Development Studies (UDS) has held its April 2026 Congregation, graduating nearly one thousand students across various disciplines at a colourful ceremony on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Multipurpose Auditorium on the Tamale Campus.

The event brought together traditional authorities, government representatives, members of the University Governing Council, academic leaders, staff, students, and families of the graduands in a celebration of academic achievement and institutional progress.

Formally constituting the Congregation, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Abdullah Salifu, underscored the importance of higher education in national development and charged graduands to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and service.

He commended Management for sustaining academic standards and expanding access to education, noting that UDS continues to play a critical role in producing skilled manpower for Ghana’s development. He also acknowledged the contributions of stakeholders, including traditional authorities and government, towards the growth of the University.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, described the ceremony as a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and transformation.

He noted that the University had made significant strides in infrastructure development, academic excellence, and international collaborations within the period under review. He pointed to ongoing investments in facilities such as the Nursing and Midwifery Complex, laboratory infrastructure, and new lecture spaces as part of efforts to enhance teaching and learning.

Prof. Al-hassan also highlighted UDS’ growing global partnerships and its rising profile in research, innovation, and community engagement, reaffirming the University’s commitment to its mandate of “knowledge for service.”

Providing statistics on the graduating class, the Vice-Chancellor indicated that thousands of students were awarded degrees at postgraduate, undergraduate, and diploma levels, reflecting a steady increase in access to higher education and improved gender balance.

Representing the Northern Regional Minister, the Municipal Chief Executive for Sagnarigu, MCE for Sagnarigu Hon Imoro Gong, conveyed government’s congratulations to the graduands and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting tertiary education.

He emphasized the role of institutions like UDS in driving socio-economic transformation, particularly in northern Ghana, and assured the University of continued collaboration in infrastructure and human capital development.

Delivering the valedictory address, Franklin Xavier Dono, speaking on behalf of the graduating class, expressed gratitude to lecturers, families, and the University community for their support throughout their academic journey.

He encouraged his colleagues to remain guided by the values instilled in them by UDS and to use their knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions to society. He described the UDS experience as one that shapes not only intellect but also character and commitment to service.

The ceremony marked yet another milestone in the University’s history, reinforcing its reputation as a leading institution committed to inclusive education, research excellence, and community impact.

The April 2026 Congregation follows a period of significant institutional growth, with expanded infrastructure, strengthened governance structures, and enhanced stakeholder engagement positioning UDS as a key driver of development in Ghana and beyond.

Story by: Abdul Hayi Moomen
UDS Media