The University for Development Studies (UDS) has inaugurated a new distance learning center in Nakpanduri, marking a significant step in its mission to bridge the educational gap in the Northern Region by bringing education to the door steps of the rural communities. This center will allow prospective students to earn degrees and diplomas from the comfort of their homes, furthering the university's commitment to accessible education.

Dr. Cecelia Alima Issaka, Director of the Institute of Distance and Continuing Learning at UDS, led a delegation to the center. She expressed optimism about the positive impact the center will have on the community. Before visiting the center, Dr. Cecelia and her team paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of the Nakpanduri Traditional Area, Chief David Kansuk. Chief Kansuk, along with the elders, formally handed over the center to the university. The inauguration of the Centre adds to the list of the already five (5) existing Distance Learning Centres of the University for Development Studies across the Northern Region including Dambai, Gambaga, Mccoy, St. Vincent and Tumu Colleges of Education.

On behalf of the University Management, Dr. Issaka conveyed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “The university will maintain and use it for the purpose for which it was donated.” Dr. Cecelia stated that this kind gesture comes at the right time, indicating “The new center comes at an opportune time for the University, as the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has requested the University to relocate from its current facilities in the area. This new center meets GTEC's requirements, ensuring that students will have an academically conducive environment for learning.” The center was initially constructed by a contractor and handed over to the traditional authorities before it was then donated to UDS.

Mr. Nyunmon Konlan Simon, the Stakeholder Secretary of the Nakpanduri Traditional Area, highlighted the chief's dedication to education. He explained that the chief, prioritizing educational advancement, consulted with his elders to facilitate the handover of the center to UDS. Mr. Simon expressed hope that the center would eventually be upgraded to a satellite campus, offering regular courses to students from surrounding districts. “Education and development are so dear to the chief, and having UDS establish a Distance Learning Center in the area is a dream come true,” Mr. Simon stated. “Nakpanduri is at the center of four districts, making it a strategic location for a facility that will educate students from all surrounding areas.

The delegation accompanying Dr. Cecelia included Dr. Maxwell Nyatsikor, Deputy Director of the Institute of Distance and Continuing Learning, and Madam Sarah Atambeogo, Faculty Officer of the Institute.

The establishment of this center aligns with UDS's broader strategic goals to enhance educational infrastructure and accessibility in underserved communities. The University has been actively working on several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education and expanding its reach to rural areas through its flagship Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP).

Community members and leaders have expressed their enthusiasm for the new center, anticipating that it will not only increase educational opportunities but also stimulate local development. The presence of a reputable institution like UDS is expected to attract more resources and attention to Nakpanduri, potentially leading to further investments in the area.
Dr Cecelia hinted that in the coming months, UDS plans to enroll more students as the University continues to expand its footprint in rural communities while remaining committed to its core mission of fostering development through education and community engagement.