In a brief but memorable ceremony that blended tradition, academic pride, and professional promise, the University for Development Studies (UDS) officially opened its Campus Model Pharmacy on the Tamale Campus. The event, held on the morning of Thursday, April 25, 2025, marked a significant step in the university’s march towards practical, student-centered professional training.

The Pharmacy, located on the ground floor of the GUSSS building, is designed to provide essential pharmaceutical services not only to the university community but also to the public. It represents a bold stride in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.

The cutting of the ceremonial ribbon was jointly performed by the Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, and Queen Nozizwe Pearl Mulela, Managing Director of Eswatini Bank, who was on an official visit to the university. Both dignitaries lauded the initiative and expressed hope that it would be run with utmost professionalism and ethical standards.

“I am particularly delighted that our vision of transforming UDS into a practical training hub is coming to life in such impactful ways,” Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan said. “This Pharmacy will serve as both a learning environment and a critical health service facility. I commend the School of Pharmacy and all who played a part in bringing this vision to fruition.”

Queen Nozizwe Pearl Mulela echoed the sentiment, noting: “What we are witnessing today is the essence of purposeful academic investment. A university that not only teaches but demonstrates, not only imparts knowledge but applies it. I am truly honoured to be part of this milestone.”
The ceremony was attended by key university leaders including the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Haruna Al-Hassan; the Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar; Director of Finance, Dr. Mohammed Hardi Shaibu; Director of Audit, Mr. Abukari Abdulai; and the Director of Works and Physical Development, Ing. Kwame Debrah. Also present were several Deans, Directors, former Principal Officers of the University — including Prof. Wayo Seini, Dr. Hakeem Wemah, and Dr. A.B Salifu — as well as faculty, staff, and an impressive turnout of students from the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof. Baba Sulemana, reflected on the journey toward the establishment of the Model Pharmacy. “This is a statement to the fact that we are no longer just teaching in lecture halls. We are walking the talk, bringing theory into practice,” he said. “I am grateful to the UDS Management, my colleagues, and the students for their unwavering support.”

Prof. Anthony Amalba, an Associate Professor in Health Professions Education and a recent recipient of the Distinguished Pharmacy Practice and Academic Excellence Award by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, shared insights into the range of services the Pharmacy will offer. “Beyond serving students and staff, the Campus Model Pharmacy will support the UDS Clinic and potentially other health facilities,” he explained. “A university that trains pharmacists must also demonstrate what professional pharmacy practice looks like — and that’s exactly what we aim to do here.”

The event closed with a tour of the facility, where guests had the opportunity to see the modern equipment and layout that reflect the latest standards in pharmaceutical care. Lively conversations and proud smiles filled the air as the UDS community celebrated yet another achievement in its mission to lead with innovation and relevance.

Indeed, the UDS Campus Model Pharmacy is more than just a health outlet — it is a bold statement of vision, commitment, and educational transformation.

Story by Abdul Hayi Moomen and Ernestina 
UDS Media