On Saturday, February 17, 2024, the University for Development Studies, UDS, held its 32nd matriculation ceremony to formally welcome newly admitted freshmen and women into the university.

Two separate ceremonies were simultaneously held on the Nyankpala and Tamale Campuses and supervised by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan and the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Haruna Alhassan respectively.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan emphasized the significance of the matriculation oath, highlighting its role in binding the students to the institution's values and principles. He commended the students on their admission to UDS, citing it as a commendable achievement and urged them to embrace the academic journey ahead with enthusiasm.

The Vice-Chancellor revealed that out of 28,234 undergraduate applicants for the 2023/2024 academic year, only 9,202 were admitted due to infrastructural constraints. Similarly, 640 postgraduate students were admitted out of 1,430 applicants. Prof. Al-Hassan assured the new students of the university's efforts to expand its facilities to accommodate more qualified applicants in the future.

The Vice-Chancellor informed the Fresh students about the university's recent achievements, including its ranking as the 4th best university in Ghana and 44th in Sub-Saharan Africa by the Times Higher Education World Universities Rankings, Prof. Al-Hassan expressed pride in UDS' commitment to academic excellence. He underscored the university's expansive infrastructure and peaceful learning environment across its three main campuses.

Highlighting the importance of self-discipline and integrity, Prof. Al-Hassan cautioned against academic malpractices and misconduct, stressing the university's zero-tolerance policy towards such behaviors. He urged students to familiarize themselves with the university's regulations and to utilize its facilities responsibly.

The Vice-Chancellor outlined the university's unique community outreach program, the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP), which provides students with practical experience in rural communities to address developmental challenges. He congratulated the freshmen and wished them success, good health, and personal development. He encouraged them to take advantage of the opportunities available at the university and to engage actively in their studies.

Meanwhile, on the Tamale Campus, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Haruna Alhassan , led students to swear the matriculation oath, while reiterating the Vice-Chancellor’s call on the Fresh Students to abide by all regulations governing the University.

Present at the ceremony were Deans Heads of Departments, Members of Convocation, Senior and Junior Staff of the University as well as student leaders.

Story By: Sumaila Mohammed(UDS Media)