In a significant step toward addressing the growing demand for student accommodation, the University for Development Studies (UDS) has officially commenced construction of a 500-bed hostel at its Nyankpala Campus. 

The groundbreaking ceremony was held on 24th September 2024 with Alhaji Dr. Hardi Shaibu, Director of Finance, cutting the sod on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan. 

The hostel, which will be a six-storey facility, is a project of the Ghana University Superannuation Scheme (GUSSS) and is expected to be completed within 24 months. It is being constructed by Might Ghana Limited and will be located just 50 meters from the university's main entrance, adjacent to the Nyankpala Hostel. 

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Prof. Mohammed Iddrisu Muniru, the Acting Director of Procurement, Mr. Safianu Mahama the Director of WPD, Ing. Kwame Debrah and officials from the Works and Physical Development Directorate, which is serving as the consultant for the project. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Ing. Kwame Debrah, the Director of Works, elaborated on the design and functionality of the new hostel. He noted that, beyond its 500-bed capacity, the building will include several modern ancillary facilities aimed at enhancing the living experience for students. These will include a restaurant, retail shops, a gymnasium, and a student common room. 

"This hostel will not only provide students with adequate accommodation but will also create an environment that promotes comfort and well-being. With these added facilities, we are looking at a space that encourages both academic and social interaction," Ing. Debrah said.

The new hostel is seen as a major step in easing the pressure on student housing, which has been a growing challenge at UDS, Nyankpala. Currently, the demand for on-campus accommodation far exceeds the available spaces, leaving many students scrambling for alternatives in surrounding communities. The 500-bed facility is expected to reduce this deficit significantly.

The Principal of Nyankpala Campus praised the project, emphasizing its role in boosting the university's infrastructure. "This project will not only alleviate accommodation challenges but also enhance the beauty of our campus," he stated. "It is strategically located at the entrance, symbolizing the university’s commitment to providing quality infrastructure for its students."

The GUSSS hostel, once completed, will be a modern, eco-friendly structure that contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the Nyankpala Campus. As UDS continues to grow and attract more students, investments in infrastructure, such as this one, are crucial to maintaining its reputation as a leading institution in the country.

The hostel construction aligns with the university’s broader agenda of creating an enabling environment for learning and research, with a focus on student welfare.

Story by:
Arch. Jawhari Baba Duah/ Abdul-Hayi Moomen