SDD-UBIDS, located in Wa, Upper West Region, was created by the Government of Ghana through the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies Act, 2019 (ACT 1001). This legislation transformed the former University for Development Studies (UDS), Wa Campus, into an independent public tertiary institution.
On November 23, 2024, the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) celebrated a historic milestone graduation ceremony, in which 2,321 graduands were honoured with various qualifications: PhD, Masters, Degrees, and Diplomas. The event marked the University’s Third Congregation since its establishment in 2019.
Kweku Yamoah Paintsil, Esq., Chairperson of the University Governing Council, expressed gratitude to faculty and staff, praising their dedication to excellence in teaching, research, and mentorship. He encouraged the graduands to apply their knowledge and values in shaping a brighter future. “We are confident you will become entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers, and leaders, armed with the tools for success and values that will distinguish you as change-makers,” he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel K. Derbile, acknowledged challenges, particularly in infrastructure development, citing a significant deficit due to funding limitations. He, however, emphasised the graduands’ preparedness to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.
The Valedictorian, Meela Bernard Bieniyir, who achieved an outstanding CGPA of 4.82, highlighted the University’s vast land as an opportunity for transformative projects. He envisioned the establishment of cutting-edge facilities, including modern lecture halls, laboratories, and sustainable green spaces, as pathways to positioning SDD-UBIDS as a leader in education and development.
Two graduands, Joan Eyram Badzi and Meela Bernard Bieniyir, were presented with cash awards for emerging best female and male graduating students, respectively. This memorable event underscores SDD-UBIDS’ commitment to nurturing leaders equipped with knowledge, skills, and values to address global challenges and drive sustainable development.
