In a stirring moment of generosity and inspiration, the Former Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Hon. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has pledged a monumental donation of GHS 200,000 to the Students Financial Aid Scheme (SFAS) of the University for Development Studies (UDS), offering a lifeline to hundreds of needy but brilliant students.

The surprise announcement was made during a colourful ceremony held at the Dr. Andani Andan Academic Chamber on the Tamale Campus of UDS, where the first cohort of 120 beneficiaries of the SFAS were officially presented with their financial support packages. The event drew a packed audience of students, family members, friends, faculty deans, and directors, all gathered to witness what would become a landmark day in the University’s history.

The SFAS, an initiative of the Office of the Dean of Students, was birthed out of a growing concern for the rising number of talented students who faced financial constraints that threatened their academic journey. Since its inception, the scheme has sought to bridge the economic gap and ensure that no deserving student is left behind due to poverty.

As the beneficiaries beamed with pride and gratitude while receiving their awards, the atmosphere was already charged with emotion. But the true highlight came towards the end of the event, when Hon. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, also the Member of Parliament for the Karaga Constituency, made an unannounced appearance. On a private visit to the campus, Dr. Adam decided to honour the invitation extended to him to briefly observe the proceedings.

His entry into the auditorium was met with gasps and spontaneous applause. Welcoming him warmly, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Haruna Alhassan, offered a brief but insightful background to the SFAS. He seized the opportunity to laud the Former Finance Minister for his inspiring career and community-driven values, stating, 

“People like Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, the current Minister for Education, are not just political figures, they are symbols of hope. They are proof that with determination, education, and support, our young people can rise above any limitation.” Clearly moved by the testimonies and the vision of the scheme, Dr. Adam rose to speak and stunned the audience with his pledge.

“I am deeply touched by what I’ve seen and heard today. As someone who once walked in similar shoes, struggling to find a way out through education, I understand the power this kind of support holds,” he said.

“I am committing GHS 200,000 to this noble cause, not just as an act of giving, but as an investment in the future of our region and our country. I urge every student here, especially those from poor backgrounds, to always remember the mission behind their education. Use this opportunity not just to elevate yourselves, but to uplift your families and your communities.”

The chamber erupted into cheers as the Former Minister’s words sank in, affirming the profound impact that leadership, rooted in empathy, can make. For many students in the room, the donation was more than a sum of money, it was a message that they matter, that their dreams are valid, and that society is watching and willing to stand by them.

Prof. Alhassan Musah, Dean of Students and the architect behind the scheme, captured the essence of the day with a powerful quote:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. The success of this scheme is proof of what we can do together. This is more than financial aid, it’s a beacon of hope, compassion, and transformation.”

As the students filed out of the chamber, clutching their envelopes, brimming with pride, and energized by the unexpected generosity, the vision of the SFAS stood even clearer: to turn struggle into strength, and dreams into destiny.

With Hon. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam's donation, the UDS Students Financial Aid Scheme is not just gaining funds, it is gaining momentum.

Story by Abdul Hayi Moomen
UDS Media