The University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS), through the Directorate of Community Outreach and Business Incubation (DCOBI), has organised an orientation programme for Level 100 students participating on the Third Trimester Practical Training Programme (PTP) ahead of the commencement of the field activities.
A total of 986 Level 100 students from the various faculties and schools of the University participated in the orientation held at the New Auditorium on Monday, 13th July 2026.
The event sought to equip the students with the knowledge and practical skills required to undertake the University’s flagship field-based learning programme.
Addressing the students on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Kanchebe Derbile, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kanton Osmanu Issaka, described the PTP as one of the defining features of the UBIDS educational model and a major component of the University’s commitment to practical and community-centred education.
According to him, the programme distinguishes UBIDS graduates by exposing them to real-life development challenges and providing opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to practical situations.
Emphasising the importance of the programme, Prof. Kanton underscored “The PTP is not an optional activity but an integral component of your academic journey at UBIDS and a requirement for graduation”. He therefore, urged students to actively participate in all aspects of the programme and take advantage of the opportunities it offers for personal and professional growth.
Speaking on the structure and organisation of the programme, the Director of the Directorate of Community Outreach and Business Incubation (DCOBI), Professor Stanley K. Dery, explained that the PTP runs throughout students’ period of study at the University, with activities varying according to level and programme requirements.
He noted that while Level 100 students undertake campus-based practical activities and field exercises within selected communities in Wa, higher-level students engage in community immersion, industrial attachment, and teaching practice.
Students were also taken through the PTP field guide, assessment procedures, report structure, field logistics, and supervision arrangements by faculty coordinators and staff of DCOBI. Professor Dery further emphasised the importance of field participation, proper record keeping, and adherence to programme guidelines throughout the five-week period.
Speaking on the operational aspects of the programme, Dr. Thomas Agana, Coordinator of the Faculty of Integrated Development Studies (FIDS) Programmes, took the students through the PTP Field Guide, explaining the assessment procedures, reporting requirements, field logistics and supervision mechanisms that will underpin the five-week exercise.
The University Counsellor, Mr. Iddrisu Abubakari Ayamba, in his remarks, encouraged students to approach the programme with seriousness and commitment, noting that the practical experiences gained through the PTP contribute significantly to students’ employability and professional development.
The orientation concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session and the introduction of field coordinators to the various student groups.
Also present at the orientation were PTP programme coordinators and field coordinators who will support, guide and supervise students throughout the duration of the five-week programme, as well as the Director of University Relations, Dr. Fidelis Z. Tang.
The Practical Training Programme is a distinctive feature of the UBIDS academic model and reflects the University’s mandate of producing practically oriented graduates and community development practitioners through experiential learning and community engagement.