The University for Development Studies (UDS) marked a significant milestone on Monday, September 18, 2023, with the official orientation of the 2023 Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP) for first-year students. The event, held at the Multipurpose Auditorium on the UDS campus, brought together students, faculty, and staff for an inspiring and educational kick-off to this unique academic endeavor.

The Director of the Directorate of Community Research and Outreach Programmes, Prof. Addah Wesah said the TTFPP was designed to enable students to research, interact with members of deprived communities, mentor others, and find solutions to the development challenges within those communities.

He highlighted the program's primary goal of providing students with hands-on practical experience and the opportunity to address critical issues facing deprived communities and vulnerable groups. "This program is unique in our university, just as our students are unique in addressing community challenges for social development," stated Prof. Addah.

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor who doubled as the chairman of the event, Prof. F. K. Abagale, reechoed the significance of the TTFPP, emphasizing that it plays a pivotal role in the university's academic landscape.  He spoke about the multifaceted nature of society and stressed the need for collective efforts to achieve sustainable development.

The Head of the University Counselling Unit, (Tamale Campus) Alhaji Hussein, advised the students to promote social respect, support one another both within and outside their communities, and express gratitude to the community members while remaining vigilant and security conscious at all times.

The Director of Health Services Dr. Abubakari Bawah Abdulai, provided valuable insights on how to maintain good health during their stay in the communities. He cautioned students about health risks and encouraged them to carry first-aid kits, and mosquito nets, and prioritize reproductive health and personal hygiene. Dr. Bawah informed students that some communities have CHPS compounds, adding that in case of emergencies, they should desist from self-medication and rather take advantage of the health centers in the communities.

The Dean of Students, Dr. Musah Alhassan, offered guidance on living harmoniously within the communities. He emphasized discipline, discouraged bad behavior, and urged students to uphold the university's image.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, provided some insights and gave the background and objectives of the TTFPP. Prof. Seidu reiterated that the program was designed to expose students to rural community challenges. He encouraged the students to develop innovative solutions to those challenges.

Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan announced the introduction of the Vice Chancellor’s TTFPP Award, which will recognize students and groups who come up with the best research work and implementation of the most innovative ideas to solve problems in their communities. He said an amount of GHC5000 will be awarded to the best group, and GHC2,500 will go to the best student in community research implementation.

Prof. Seidu concluded by revealing that a total of 8,746 students of both first- and second-year students would be deployed to rural communities across four regions, including the Northern region, North East region, Savannah region, and Upper East region, reaffirming the commitment of UDS to fostering community development.

The orientation event was attended by some key office holders including the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, the Director of Finance, Dr. Mohammed Hardi Shaibu, Director of Planning and Quality Assurance, Prof. Ziblim Shamsu-deen, Director of Internal Audit, Mr. Abdulai Abukari, the University Librarian, Mr. Edwin Thompson, the Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Abdul-Hayi Moomen, the SRC President for Tamale Campus, Miss Rukaya Hussein, the representative of the Regional Minister of Savannah Region and officials of the Directorate of Community Research and Outreach Programmes (DCROP). Simlar events were held in Nyankpala, Sawla, and Wa.

UDS remains committed to its mission of fostering community development and equipping students with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change in Ghana's rural communities. The 2023 TTFPP orientation sets a promising tone for the university's dedication to community-driven education and innovative problem-solving. UDS continues to empower its students to make meaningful contributions to society and advance the cause of sustainable development in Ghana. The UDS community eagerly anticipates the positive impact these students will make in rural communities as they embark on this unique and vital academic journey.

Story by:
Yussif Ismail (UDS Media)
Abubakar Hafsah Bance (UDS Media)