In a bid to strengthen ties and foster collaboration, a delegation from the Management of the University for Development Studies (UDS) has assured the Chief of Nyankpala, Naa Mohammed Ibrahim, of the university’s continuous commitment to the development of the Nyankpala Campus. This came to light during a cordial meeting at the Nyankpala Chief’s Palace, where discussions focused on the strategic growth and expansion of the university.

The meeting, led by the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Professor Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, included the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Elliot Haruna Alhassan, the Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Abubakar Issah, and other key officials from UDS. The visit was in response to concerns raised by the Chief regarding the relocation of lectures for the Faculty of Law to the Tamale Campus.

During the engagement, the Principal provided a comprehensive explanation of the university’s expansion strategy, noting that the Faculty of Law was initially designated for the Gbanyamli Campus. However, due to the absence of physical structures at the time, the faculty was temporarily hosted at the Nyankpala Campus. He further explained that students enrolled in the faculty, particularly those in the evening sandwich programme, had expressed concerns about the cost and safety implications of commuting from Tamale to Nyankpala, which ultimately informed the decision to relocate lectures while maintaining faculty offices at Nyankpala.

Prof. Iddrisu reassured the Chief that the relocation was not intended to diminish the significance of the Nyankpala Campus but rather align with the university’s broader strategic vision, which includes expansion across multiple campuses, including Yendi. He emphasized that the Nyankpala Campus remains a key pillar of the university, hosting several faculties and playing a vital role in UDS’s academic and research mission. He also appealed for support from the Traditional Council to help enhance infrastructure on the campus, given the introduction of new programmes requiring additional facilities.

The Chief of Nyankpala, Naa Mohammed Ibrahim, welcomed the delegation’s visit and commended the university’s leadership for engaging in an open and respectful dialogue. He expressed his satisfaction with the explanations provided and reiterated his commitment to supporting the university’s development agenda. He acknowledged the historical significance of the campus and emphasized the need for continuous collaboration between UDS and the Nyankpala Traditional Council in fostering growth and progress.

On behalf of the Chief, Mr. Ibrahim Salifu, the Chief’s spokesperson, expressed gratitude to the university delegation for their engagement. He called for stronger collaboration between the university and the traditional authority in advocating for infrastructural development and support from government and philanthropic organizations. He also encouraged UDS management to consider opportunities for student admissions and employment support within the traditional area.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to working together towards the sustained growth and advancement of the Nyankpala Campus. The Chief offered prayers for the university’s leadership, staff, and students, wishing them success in their academic and administrative pursuits.

Story by: Joseph S. Attiah
Ag. Campus Officer
Deputy Registrar