At the 25th Congregation Ceremony of the University for Development Studies (UDS) on November 9, 2024, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, Member of Parliament for Tamale South, announced a significant commitment to STEM education. He pledged GH₵100,000 to establish an annual award for the best graduating STEM student at UDS. The initiative is aimed at propelling excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and underscores the critical role of education in Ghana’s development.

A Catalyst for STEM Excellence
The announcement, greeted with applause by students, faculty, and families, is a monumental step in fostering Ghanaian innovation and leadership in STEM fields. Hon. Haruna Iddrisu highlighted the need to empower youth to drive progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education, economic growth, and innovation.

"This pledge is not just an investment in education but a call to action for the youth of Ghana to lead our nation’s journey into the Fourth Industrial Revolution," Hon. Iddrisu remarked. "By supporting STEM excellence, we are paving the way for innovations that will transform Ghana and place us at the forefront of technological advancement."

Honoring a Legacy of Service
A respected statesman, Hon. Iddrisu has served as Minister for Communications, Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, and Minister for Trade and Industry. His career has been defined by a commitment to technology, industrial growth, and youth empowerment, making this award a natural extension of his vision for Ghana’s future.

UDS: A Hub for STEM Innovation
UDS’s leadership expressed profound gratitude for the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the university’s mission of addressing Ghana’s developmental challenges. Known for its focus on rural development and problem-solving, UDS has cemented its position as a leader in STEM education.

Speaking at the ceremony, UDS Vice-Chancellor Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan noted: "This generous pledge deepens UDS’s impact as a center for innovation and talent development. It inspires our students to dream big, innovate, and serve their communities while achieving excellence on a global scale."

The STEM award comes at a time when Ghana is prioritizing the development of a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Hon. Iddrisu’s support will encourage students to pursue careers in STEM, contributing to advancements in technology, engineering, and scientific research.

A Celebration of Achievement and Hope
The 25th Congregation ceremony celebrated academic success while highlighting UDS’s pivotal role in driving educational and economic opportunities. The pledge by Hon. Iddrisu resonated with the event’s theme of transformation and optimism.

As graduates received their degrees, the atmosphere was charged with hope for a future shaped by education and innovation. Hon. Iddrisu’s scholarship program is expected to inspire current students and generations to come, creating a ripple effect that strengthens Ghana’s economy and transforms communities.

"Through this award, we are setting a benchmark for investing in youth potential and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation," Hon. Iddrisu affirmed.

Pioneering the Future
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu’s pledge represents a broader vision for Ghana’s future—a nation driven by empowered, skilled youth who will lead transformative change. This initiative not only positions UDS as a hub for STEM leadership but also reaffirms education’s central role in building a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Ghana.

Story by: Sumaila Mohammed, UDS Media