The Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) has successfully hosted its 5th International Research and Development Conference at its Wa campus. The three-day event was opened on 24th September, 2025 with the theme, “Sustainable Pathways for Peace, Governance and Inclusive Development in Africa.” The well-attended event brought together academics, policymakers, industry partners, and students to explore sustainable approaches to peace, governance, and inclusive development across Africa.
The Chairman of the University Governing Council, Hon. Dr. Benjamin Bewa-Nyog Kunbour Esq., welcomed members to the event, describing the theme as, “timely and resonant with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions.” He commended the University for sustaining a vibrant platform that convenes scholars and practitioners from Ghana and beyond to shape solutions for Africa’s most pressing development challenges.
In his address, Professor Emmanuel Kanchebe Derbile, Vice-Chancellor of the University, appreciated the increasing numbers in participation of postgraduate students, noting the phenomenon as a testimony to the growing research culture among our next generation of scholars. According to him, the broad participation of academics and postgraduate students reflects the growing impact of the Conference and the University’s investment in research training. He added that the University is establishing a grants office to source and manage competitive research funding as well as developing Artificial Intelligence and Risk-Management Policies to position the University for emerging global research opportunities. The Vice-Chancellor, also, highlighted a new five-year partnership with industry actors aimed at joint grant sourcing and project implementation.
He extended his appreciation to the organisers, participants, partners, and the media, with the hope that the deliberations would foster collaboration, inform policy, and drive sustainable development in Africa.
Professor Frederick Dayour, the Director of Research, in his address, disclosed that the 2025 Conference attracted at least, 102 registered participants from various institutions across Ghana, with postgraduate students making up to 63%. Accordingly to him, out of 124 abstracts that were submitted, 90 were accepted for presentation, reflecting the conference’s growing relevance and quality. Professor Dayour said, to enhance academic impact, the Directorate of Research facilitated a rigorous double-blind review of the 2024 submissions, resulting in 17 papers published in the conference proceedings. He emphasised that the Conference has become a flagship event of UBIDS and encouraged participants to publish in the University’s journals; the Ghana Journal of Development Studies (GJDS) and the Journal of Planning and Land Management (JPLM).
The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq,, who was the guest of Honour, praised University for sustaining the conference tradition and urged researchers to generate evidence-based policies to tackle issues such as climate change, migration, and youth unemployment.
The Keynote address was delivered by Kuoro Professor Baduawaali II, Paramount Chief of the Wellembelle Traditional Area. Drawing on Ghana’s democratic experience and global development perspectives, he underscored that lasting peace is inseparable from social justice, inclusive governance, and the reduction of inequality.
Kuoro Professor Baduawaali II, said the African landscape is littered with examples; of the devastating consequences of bad governance arising from a leadership deficit including failed states, corrupt leadership, state capture and cronyism, the rise and love for strong-man leadership, coups d’état, civil strife and civil wars. Apparently, Ghana’s experience confirms that peace, governance, and development are mutually reinforcing where its democratic stability and institutional peace architecture are key achievements. However, corruption, inequality, youth unemployment and environmental destruction risk peace and stability in Ghana.
He concluded by emphasising that, sustained reforms, deeper citizen participation, and conflict-sensitive approaches are essential for continuous progress.
The eventful conference featured, parallel presentations, and networking opportunities aimed at transforming research findings into actionable policies that advance peace, good governance, and inclusive development across Africa.
Other venerable personalities who graced the occasion included the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Issaka Osumanu Kanton, the Registrar, Mr. Job Asante, the Acting Director of Finance, the Mayor of the Wa Municipal, Honourable Alhaji Nurah I. Danwanaa, Deans, Directors, Faculty, and Heads of Department.
Issued by:
Directorate of University Relations
Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Wa Campus, Upper West Region, Ghana
+233 392 097 256 / +233 392 097 257
www.ubids.edu.gh
info@ubids.edu.gh | uro@ubids.edu.gh