A delegation from the Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) embarked on a comprehensive visit to assess various projects at the University for Development Studies (UDS) on July 12, 2023. The visit aimed to closely monitor and appreciate the progress of approved projects, while also addressing recent concerns, particularly the unfortunate collapse of a building on the City Campus.

The delegation, led by the Committee's Secretary, Dr. David Quist, included prominent members such as Mrs. Paschallina Obiri Asiamah, the Principal Economics Officer, Surv. Osei Agyemang-Badu, the Technical Adviser, Mr. Joshua Ofori Amanfo, Mr. David Nyante, and Mr. Kwame Prempeh.

Upon their arrival at the Tamale Campus, the delegation first held a meeting with the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan. Present at the meeting were the PRO Vice-Chancellor, Ing. Prof. Felix Kofi Abagale, the Registrar Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, the Director of Finance, Dr. Muhammed Hardi Shaibu, among others.

The Vice Chancellor addressing the Delegation

The Committee's Secretary, Dr. David Quist, highlighted the purpose of their visit this year, emphasizing the Committee's commitment to understanding the progress of the approved projects, especially, the larger ones. He expressed concern over the collapsed building on the City Campus and stressed the need to investigate the cause of the collapse thoroughly to prevent any such incidents in the future.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, extended a warm welcome to the delegation and congratulate the Committee for their dedication to evaluating projects. He assured them that the University is utilizing the approved funds with utmost responsibility and accountability. Expressing his dismay over the recent collapse, he reassured the delegation that the University is committed to implementing strict measures to ensure the safety and quality of all ongoing and future projects.

Moving forward with their assessment, the delegation proceeded to the Nyankpala campus, where they inspected the progress of the prestigious Presidential Gift and the WACWISA project. The committee was impressed with the developments they witnessed, acknowledging the University's dedication to excellence.

The Delegation visits the Presidential Gift

Following their site visits, the delegation made their way to the city campus to assess the site of the collapsed building. They engaged in comprehensive discussions with the University's officials to gain insights into the root causes of the incident and how to prevent such occurrences in the future.

The Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) was established by Section 20 of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (ACT, 663) as amended, with a primary focus on ensuring compliance with Ghana's procurement laws. The Committee plays a vital role in reviewing evaluation reports of procurement entities, granting or denying concurrent approvals based on the procurement cycle, and addressing complaints related to procurement decisions. Their presence ensures transparency and adherence to the highest standards in public procurement.

The visit by the CTRC to the University for Development Studies marks a significant step towards enhancing project accountability, quality, and safety. With the collective efforts of both the Committee and the University, stakeholders can be assured that projects will be executed with the utmost efficiency and precision in the future.

Story by:
Ali Abdur Razaq Danbo (UDS Media)