In a strategic move to fortify its stakeholder engagement, Telecel Ghana recently held a significant stakeholder meeting with the Management of the University for Development Studies (UDS). The primary objective was to address the university's internet connectivity challenges and explore viable solutions to enhance digital access across its campuses, thereby supporting the institution's mission of delivering quality education.

The delegation from Telecel Ghana was led by Madam Tawa Bolarin, Head of the Enterprise Business Unit (EBU). In her address, Madam Bolarin emphasized the importance of understanding the university’s internet connectivity needs to establish a robust business and contractual relationship. The ultimate goal is to provide seamless internet packages that will rejuvenate the existing relationship between the Student Representative Council (SRC), Telecel Ghana, and the University Management.

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elliot H. Alhassan underscored the necessity for accessible data on bundle packages to enable the University Management to track performance and progress effectively. He also highlighted the importance of comprehensive documentation to better understand the dynamics of the contractual terms between Telecel, the SRC, and the University Management. He again appealed to Telecel Ghana to ensure that internet speed at the Nyankpala campus is up to par.

The Pro-VC shared the university's plans to establish new campuses in Gbanyimli, which will house the School of Business and the Faculty of Law, as well as a campus in Yendi. He emphasized that these expansions require substantial improvements in internet connectivity to ensure efficient task performance and coordination across all campuses.

Dr. Musah Alhassan, Dean of Students, pointed out several issues, including inconsistencies in internet connectivity and frequent student complaints across all university campuses. He urged Telecel Ghana and other corporate entities to involve the University Management in activities related to contractual agreements rather than dealing solely with students. He noted that previous internet packages under past SRC leadership were halted due to inadequate due diligence and oversight in procurement procedures.

Deputy Director of Finance, Mr. Alhassan Iddrisu, expressed concerns about poor internet connectivity at the Nyankpala and City campuses, which often lead to delays in transactions and other processes. He also inquired about potential compensation packages for internet downtime and the need to compensate the university in such times.

Mr. Cosmos Yeboah, Telecel Area Manager for Bolga, detailed the allocation of internet connectivity across various UDS campuses, including the main campus, Nyankpala, City, and TTH campuses. Present at the meeting were also, Mr. Andrews Bawa Accounts Manager of Telecel Ghana; Mr. Kafui Bonol, Corporate Head of Telecel Ghana; Mr. Alfred Neizer, SME Head of Telecel Ghana; and Mr. Theophilus Fokuo, Accounts Manager of Telecel Ghana.

The engagement ended with a mutual agreement to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Telecel Ghana and the university. This partnership aims to integrate modern and advanced data packages to provide user-friendly and continuous internet access on campus, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience.

Story by; Sumaila Mohammed and Kamaldeen Fadatoyo (UDS Media)