On Saturday, April 27, 2024, the University for Development Studies (UDS) honoured some students who had demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities. Other who demonstrated exceptional commitment to community development during the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme in 2023 were also honored during the April 2024 Congregation Ceremony.

Notable among the awardees was Ms. Zakaria Nadia, who received recognition for her impactful contributions during the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme. Ms. Zakaria was stationed in the Wovogu community, Sagnerigu Municipality, where she mobilized resources to provide essential stationery and new uniforms to underprivileged school children.

Osman Redeemer was also acknowledged for his two-year service in the Nabali community, Nanumba South District. Using his communication skills, Osman produced a documentary showcasing the community's potential and helped local musicians create their first music videos, establishing digital platforms for distribution and income generation.

Additionally, Micheal Kwesi Awortwe was honoured for his volunteer teaching of mathematics and ICT in Daboya West, North Gonja district, and his active participation in communal activities during the programme.

Additionally, two groups were honoured for their impactful community initiatives. Taking the second position in the group category was Group 3. The members of the group were deployed to serve in the Jahanjori Kukuo community in the Nanton District. During their assignment, they made a remarkable discovery of a local traditional healer, who had invented a machine to cure snake bites. Recognizing the significance of this innovation, the group members invited the media to cover the story, bringing attention to the healer's life-saving invention. Additionally, the group contributed through communal labour activities, demonstrating their commitment to community development.

Securing the first position in the group category was Group 159. The members of this gropus were deployed to serve the Jirapa Municipality. Their initiatives were diverse and impactful, including offering free online renewal of NHIS cards for Junior High School students, organizing motivational seminars, conducting health outreaches, and engaging in numerous communal labour activities. Their dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and community welfare stood out, earning them well-deserved recognition.

The ceremony also celebrated outstanding student leaders, including Miss Avoka Alberta Wuntima, who was honoured for her exemplary leadership during her tenure as the local NUGS President at the Tamale Campus. She secured additional funding to organize impactful seminars and workshops, boosting student engagement and the university's image.

Niamatu Alhassan was the other awardee. During her tenure as the SRC Women’s Commissioner (WOCOM) at the Tamale Campus, she demonstrated exceptional financial prudence and transparency, securing funds for student programs and engaging external organizations for the benefit of students.

The third recipient of the exceptional leadership award was Miss Mohammed Ramatu.  As the SRC Women’s Commissioner (WOCOM) at Nyankpala Campus, she emphasized community engagement and secured additional funds for student initiatives, benefiting the university's public profile.

The only male awardee was Mr. Sulemana Abdul Bariu Wun-nam. As the SRC Treasurer at the Nyankpala Campus, he demonstrated diligent financial management, ensuring transparency and accountability despite personal challenges.

Background of the TTFPP Awards

In September 2023, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan announced the introduction of the Vice Chancellor’s TTFPP Award at the University for Development Studies (UDS). This prestigious award aims to recognize exceptional students and groups who demonstrate outstanding research and innovation in solving community challenges. The Vice Chancellor’s TTFPP Award features two categories, one is the individual category which would recognize students who excel within their groups by proposing innovative ideas and solutions. The group Category aims to honour the best-performing groups for their collective collaboration and implementation of innovative projects.

Story by Sumaila Mohammed
(UDS Media)