In line with its efforts to preserve the environment and ecosystems, the University for Development Studies, UDS, in collaboration with the Forestry Commission of Ghana marked the 2023 Green Ghana Day at the Nyankpala Campus of the university with a tree planting exercise on June 9, 2023, which also marked the Green Ghana Day.

The Green Ghana Initiative seeks to create a collective action towards restoration of degraded landscapes in the country, mitigate climate change and inculcate in the youth the values of planting and nurturing trees and their associated benefits.

Last year, during the commemoration of the Green Ghana Day, over one thousand trees were planted on both the Nyankpala and Tamale campuses, with a survival rate of 80%. This year, about two hundred trees were planted on the Nyankpala campus, behind the site of the proposed campus astroturf. The idea is to give the edifice a benefiting environment when it is ready for use.

The Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Prof. George Nyarko, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, said the initiative is part of the University’s commitment to nurture trees and to protect the environment for generations to come.

"In this month of June, which also marks the Green Ghana Day, we are planting trees across our campuses. Under this, we take action to nurture nature, the environment and biodiversity. This is because we at UDS believe that as human beings, we need nature to thrive. So, we are here to con-tribute our quota to the environment so that this planet will continue to be sustainable for us and our children".

He encouraged students, lecturers and the general public to always endeavour to participate and plant trees to ensure that the goal is achieved.

The Chairman of the Campus Beautification Committee, Prof. Raphael Adu Gyamfi disclosed that the university has a masterplan that will ensure the survival of the trees. "To sustain these trees, we need all members of the university community to put their hands on deck to ensure that the trees continue to grow.

The District Chief Executive of the Tolon District, Hon. Fuseini Salifu Issifu Moshie on behalf the Northern Regional Minister emphasised the need for Ghanaian institutions and individuals to take part in the initiative to make Ghana green. He said this will go a long way to create economic and employment opportunities for the youth, women and returning migrants by promoting and supporting sustainable green businesses.

The exercise brought together officials from the Ghana Forestry Commission, various Faculties, Departments and the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) of the University for Development Studies.

Story by: Hamdan Wumpeka Amadu
(University Relations)