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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo unveiled the recently built Silver Jubilee Building at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale during a momentous event. This marked a key turning point in the university’s development and the President’s devotion to education in Ghana.
A three-story facility intended to contain lecture halls and offices, the Silver Jubilee Building is a monument to President Akufo-Addo’s 2018 pledge made during UDS’s 25th anniversary celebrations. The President, speaking during the inauguration, conveyed his happiness with the building’s completion and emphasized that it is more than simply a physical structure.
“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,” the President stated. He noted that the structure serves as a catalyst for innovation and a hub for intellectual discourse, which will significantly enhance the academic environment for both students and faculty at UDS.
The President extended his gratitude to all those who played a role in bringing the project to fruition, including the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the university’s governing council, faculty, staff, students, and the contractors, Buildex Company Ltd. He praised their dedication and craftsmanship, which he said are evident in every corner of the new building.
As part of his remarks, President Akufo-Addo underscored the broader significance of education as a cornerstone of national development. He highlighted the considerable investments his government has made in the education sector, including a budgetary allocation of GH¢12.88 billion 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,” the President said.
He also pointed to the success of the No Guarantor Policy, which has significantly improved access to tertiary education by removing financial barriers for students. The policy, he noted, has led to a 60.3% increase in the number of students seeking tertiary education between the 2016/2017 and 2022/2023 academic years. This surge in demand has prompted the government to establish four new universities across the country and expand existing facilities.
The President went on to reiterate his government’s support for academics and research, stating that GH¢226 million had been given out as research allowances since 2020 and that GH¢491 million had been set aside for book allowances. He emphasized that these expenditures are essential to creating an atmosphere that supports intellectual inquiry and creativity.
President Akufo-Addo urged academic institutions to deepen their connections with business, government, and community groups in order to make sure that their research and instruction are in line with the country’s development objectives.
He underlined how important it is for universities to teach professionals in a variety of disciplines, such as physics, engineering, political science, and law.
Finally, the President thanked the Vice President, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for his ability, ingenuity, and future-focused vision for Ghana and asked the people to support him in the 2024 elections.
President Akufo-Addo fulfilled a promise with the opening of the Silver Jubilee Building, which also heralds the start of a new chapter in UDS’s history. While the academic community rejoices over this accomplishment, the President’s remarks serve as a reminder of the teamwork needed to create a better future for Ghana.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
