On July 31, 2024, the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) marked a significant milestone as the Governing Council and the Upper West Regional Minister commissioned three key projects and inspected ongoing developments aimed at addressing the University’s developmental needs.
The three projects commissioned include the extensions of the University Hospital (Students Clinic), the West African Center for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT), and the Gatehouse. The extension of the Students Clinic was funded by internally generated funds, while the Gatehouse project, initiated during the era of the University for Development Studies, continued under SDD-UBIDS. The West African Center for Sustainable Rural Transformation extension, which operates as the Ghanaian-Germany Center for Development Studies, was funded through a grant from DAAD.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel K. Derbile highlighted the University’s progress in international recruitment, noting the enrollment of 12 international students (Masters and PhD) from neighbouring countries through the center’s initiatives. “Some of these students are currently residing in Ghana, while others are contributing to the workforce in the Upper West Region.”
With reference to the sponsorship from the WAC-SRT, Professor Derbile also revealed that SDD-UBIDS has received over 60 applications of both masters and PhD from international students within the West African Sub Region and the East Africa for 2024/2025 Academic year admission. “However, the University faces challenges in offering scholarships, with only three available for both in-house and international students.” The Vice-Chancellor indicated that this limitation stems from the need to split the scholarships following SDD-UBIDS’s transition to an autonomous university, separating from the University for Development Studies.
Looking ahead, Professor Derbile announced plans to open an office in Accra to support fundraising efforts for the University’s development.
The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu urged the University to focus on entrepreneurial programmes that equip students to create their early employment opportunities rather than relying on traditional white-collar jobs. He emphasized the need for a shift in teaching and learning methods to foster practical skills and innovation, citing examples from developed countries. Hon. Yakubu, questioned the effectiveness of the current educational approach, where theoretical learning often outweighs practical application, and stressed the importance of universities driving national development.
Following the commissioning ceremony, the Regional Minister, the Governing Council Chair, and the University Management inspected several ongoing projects. These included the construction of a multi-purpose auditorium, which is approximately 90% complete, the construction of a four-story lecture hall and office, a library complex, and a three-story lecture hall with offices.
