As part of efforts aimed at deepening international academic cooperation, the Vice-Chancellor of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, is leading a high-level delegation on an official visit to the People’s Republic of China. The visit is part of the University’s broader strategy to strengthen global partnerships and enhance the internationalization of its academic programmes.

On the first day of the visit, a major milestone was achieved as UDS, under the leadership of Prof. Al-hassan, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the prestigious Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU). The MoU, signed on behalf of UDS by the Vice-Chancellor, is expected to pave the way for academic and cultural exchange, joint research initiatives, faculty and student mobility, and curriculum collaboration between the two institutions.

Bridging Mandates, Building Futures

Established with a unique mission, the University for Development Studies is Ghana’s first and only university founded with an explicit mandate to blend academic work with practical community engagement. Rooted in a philosophy of “hands-on” learning, UDS integrates development-oriented teaching, research, and extension services into its academic curriculum. Its approach is particularly tailored to addressing the developmental needs of underserved and rural communities, with a strong focus on agriculture, health, education, and local governance.

Beijing Foreign Studies University, on the other hand, is one of China’s most prominent universities for language and international studies. With a global outlook and an impressive history of producing diplomats, language experts, and international affairs professionals, BFSU is renowned for its role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and global academic cooperation. The university offers instruction in over 100 languages and maintains partnerships with more than 400 universities and institutions worldwide.

The synergy between UDS’ development-focused, community-based model and BFSU’s global language and diplomacy orientation forms the basis for a mutually beneficial partnership.

Mutual Benefits of the MoU

The MoU between UDS and BFSU is expected to foster:

Language and Cultural Exchange: UDS students and faculty will have the opportunity to study and immerse themselves in Chinese language and culture, while BFSU students can gain exposure to Ghanaian and African development perspectives, particularly through UDS' unique third trimester practical programmes.

Joint Research Initiatives: Both universities will collaborate on research projects addressing global development issues, including sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, public health, education, and international relations.

Faculty Development: Faculty from both institutions will participate in exchange programmes, sharing expertise and innovative teaching methods, while enhancing cross-cultural academic collaboration.

Student Mobility: The agreement opens up pathways for student exchange programmes, internships, and scholarships, enriching the academic experience and global competence of students from both universities.

Curriculum Enhancement: Through shared resources and academic input, both institutions will explore the co-development of academic modules, particularly in areas of development studies, global governance, and international diplomacy.

This MoU marks a new chapter in UDS’ ongoing effort to position itself as a globally engaged institution. Under Prof. Al-hassan’s leadership, the University has prioritized international collaborations that align with its development mission and contribute to solving global challenges through locally rooted solutions.

The delegation’s visit to China will include meetings with other Chinese academic institutions, government officials, and development partners, as UDS continues to explore strategic opportunities to expand its international network.

As globalization reshapes higher education, this partnership is a bold step in reaffirming UDS’ role as a key academic player in promoting sustainable development both within Ghana and on the international stage.

Other members of the UDS delegation are the Director of Intenational Relations and Advancement, Prof. Courage Saba and the Director of the West Africa Center for Shea Innovation and Research, Prof. Abukari Alhassan.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)