President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo inaugurated the Silver Jubilee Building at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale on Thursday, August 22. This three-storey structure, designed to accommodate lecture halls and offices, represents a significant milestone for UDS and underscores President Akufo-Addo’s ongoing commitment to education in Ghana.
The President emphasized that the Silver Jubilee Building is more than just a physical asset. “This building symbolizes our shared vision for a brighter future, our commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, and our resolve to the development of our country,” he stated. He highlighted that the facility would serve as a catalyst for innovation and a center for intellectual engagement, greatly benefiting both students and faculty.
President Akufo-Addo expressed his gratitude to the many contributors to the project, including the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), UDS’s governing council, faculty, staff, students, and Buildex Company Ltd., the contractors. He praised their dedication and craftsmanship, noting that their efforts are reflected throughout the building.
In his address, the President reiterated the importance of education as a pillar of national development. He pointed to his government’s significant investments in the sector, including a GH¢12.88 billion allocation aimed at transforming education in Ghana. “My government has expended considerable energy and resources on the education sector because we recognize that education is the most powerful tool we have to transform our nation,” he said.
The President also highlighted the success of the No Guarantor Policy, which has greatly improved access to tertiary education by eliminating financial barriers. This policy has contributed to a 60.3% increase in students seeking higher education between the 2016/2017 and 2022/2023 academic years. In response to this demand, the government has established four new universities and expanded existing facilities.
Additionally, President Akufo-Addo affirmed his government’s support for research and academic development. Since 2020, GH¢226 million has been allocated for research allowances, with another GH¢491 million set aside for book allowances. These investments are intended to foster an environment conducive to scholarly research and innovation.
Looking forward, the President urged universities to strengthen their partnerships with industry, government, and communities to ensure that their research and teaching align with national development goals. He stressed the crucial role of universities in training professionals across various fields, including science, engineering, law, and political science.
In his closing remarks, President Akufo-Addo encouraged Ghanaians to support Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming 2024 elections, praising his competence and vision for Ghana’s future.
The inauguration of the Silver Jubilee Building marks not only the fulfillment of a promise made by President Akufo-Addo but also the beginning of a new chapter in UDS’s history. As the university celebrates this achievement, the President’s remarks serve as a reminder of the collective effort required to build a brighter future for Ghana.
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