In a significant contribution towards promoting female participation in engineering and related fields, Dr. Yakubu Mohammed Saani, the Country Director of Action Aid for the Democratic Republic of Congo, has established the Hajia Safiya Yakubu Award at the University for Development Studies (UDS). The award, named in honor of his late mother, Hajia Safiya Yakubu, will support the education of two female level 300 students from underprivileged backgrounds pursuing engineering or related disciplines.

Dr. Saani, in a symbolic gesture, donated a sum of GHS5,000 to the university's Student Financial Aid Scheme to cover the annual tuition fees of the awardees. Beyond the immediate support, he has committed to funding their final-year tuition fees, underscoring his commitment to empowering young women to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Saani expressed that his mother, Hajia Safiya, was a staunch advocate for gender equity and held a deep conviction in the transformative power of education, particularly for girls. "My mother believed education could change lives and communities, especially for young women. This award is my small way of continuing her legacy by giving bright, underprivileged young women a chance to succeed in fields where they are underrepresented," he said.

The Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alhassan Musah, lauded Dr. Saani's generosity, noting the critical role such contributions play in furthering UDS's commitment to equity and diversity in education. "Your donation goes beyond financial assistance; it sends a powerful message that the future of engineering in Ghana should include women from all backgrounds," Dr. Musah emphasized. "UDS is committed to supporting diversity and will ensure this award reaches those who truly deserve it."

Also present was Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, the Registrar of UDS, who received the donation on behalf of the university. He echoed the gratitude expressed by his colleagues, stating, "Dr. Saani’s contribution is not just a financial investment; it reflects a commitment to societal progress and the development of Ghana's future workforce. Supporters like Dr. Saani help UDS fulfill its mission by broadening our outreach to underprivileged students, and we look forward to deepening our relationship with him in the years to come."

In addition to Dr. Saani’s personal contribution, the Office of Student Affairs at UDS has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Student Financial Aid Scheme (SFAS), a lifeline for students from low-income households across various disciplines. Through this initiative, UDS provides financial assistance to students who, despite their academic potential, face challenges affording tuition, accommodation, and basic academic resources. The scheme prioritizes students from rural and economically marginalized communities, ensuring that financial difficulties do not prevent talented individuals from accessing higher education.

Dr. Musah shared that SFAS receives support from alumni, private sector donors, and philanthropic individuals, but appealed for increased partnerships to meet the growing demand for financial assistance. "We are constantly seeking partners who believe in the power of education to uplift individuals and communities. With the right support, we can transform many more lives," he added.

Dr. Saani concluded by urging others to contribute to the cause, noting that investment in education is an investment in the future. "Supporting education for young people, especially women, is not just a noble cause—it’s a necessary one. I encourage others to join this journey and support these bright young minds," he said.

The Hajia Safiya Yakubu Award is expected to make a meaningful impact by opening doors for talented young women at UDS, furthering Dr. Saani’s vision of an equitable future where education is a right, not a privilege.