The serene conference hall at the UDS Guest House in Tamale came alive with nostalgia and pride as the university’s Management hosted a Homecoming event for former principal officers whose vision and leadership have shaped the university since its founding in 1992. Against a backdrop of fluttering banners and warm greetings, history and hope converged as past and present leaders gathered to share experiences and chart a course for the future.

Organized by the current Management of UDS, the Homecoming provided a platform for former Chairmen of the Governing Council, Registrars, and Vice-Chancellors to reconnect with the institution they once steered, offering reflections and advice to the current team of Deans, Directors, and senior administrators.

The Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, introduced each of the distinguished guests to the gathering. For many Deans and Directors, some of whom are alumni themselves, it was a rare privilege to meet in person the very individuals whose names they had only encountered in university archives and historical records.

Among those who graced the occasion was Prof. Wayo Seini, Immediate Past Chairman of the UDS Governing Council (2021-2024). Known for championing policy reforms and infrastructural growth during his tenure, Prof. Seini commended the current management for maintaining the university's trajectory of excellence.

"Our stewardship of this great institution was merely a baton pass. It is heartwarming to see it in capable hands," he remarked.

Dr. Hakeem Wemah, Chairman in 2000, whose era emphasized stakeholder engagement and robust governance structures, shared his admiration for the university's enduring resilience.

"UDS was birthed amid skepticism. Today, it stands tall because successive leaders refused to let the dream die," he said.

Also present was Dr. Abdulai Baba Salifu, the longest-serving Governing Council Chairman (2009–2015), who initiated critical reforms towards academic excellence. Dr. Salifu urged the current leadership not to be distracted by physical development alone.

"Infrastructure is visible and impressive," he said, "but it is the unseen investment in people, students, faculty, and staff, that will truly define UDS' future."

Adding gravitas to the event was Dr. Paul Effah, the university’s first substantive Registrar. Recalling the formative years of UDS, Dr. Effah spoke with emotion about the painstaking efforts to build a credible administrative system from scratch.

"There was no blueprint. Every document, every policy, was written with the conviction that UDS would someday be a beacon," he said.

Former Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gabriel Ayum Teye (2015-2022), whose leadership saw new faculties and campus expansions, was also warmly received. He encouraged the Management to deepen research output and international collaborations, crucial elements for global recognition.

Although some former principal officers were unable to attend in person due to various commitments and health reasons, they sent goodwill messages which were read aloud, their words resonating across the gathering like a familiar and reassuring chorus.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Seidu Al-hassan expressed profound gratitude to the guests for responding to the invitation. "We stand on the strong foundations you laid," he said. "Your legacies are living testaments that guide us today. Feel free to advise us, not just to correct the mistakes of the past but to help us carve a better path for the future."

The atmosphere grew reflective as the veterans shared anecdotes about the behind-the-scenes lobbying, negotiations, and strategic partnerships that birthed UDS. Tales of late-night meetings with government officials and influential figures painted a vivid picture of a university literally willed into existence by sheer determination.

Several Deans and Directors, themselves proud alumni, recounted their days as students when some of these legends still roamed the corridors of power at UDS. Memories of academic rigour, campus life, and inspirational encounters drew smiles, and laughter.

The event concluded with a consensus on key lessons: the importance of unity in leadership, the need for innovation in academia, and the enduring value of mentorship. The former principal officers pledged their continued support to UDS, vowing to remain available whenever called upon.

Story by;
Abdul-Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)