NEWS

UDS Students Demand Removal of Staff Over Delayed Certificates

UDS students demand the removal of staff over delayed certificates. Find out more about the protest and the students’ grievances at the University for Development Studies.

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A group of students from the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, who have completed their education programs, are demanding the removal of key university staff due to significant delays in the issuance of their graduation certificates.

The group, identified as the ‘Concerned Students of the Sandwich Colleges of Education,’ has issued an ultimatum for the university to address their grievances.

These students are enrolled in sandwich programs across five Colleges of Education, namely Tumu College of Education, Gambaga College of Education, Saint Vincent College of Education, Dambai College of Education, McCoy College of Education, and Al-Faruq College of Education. According to the group, they completed their studies between 2021 and 2022 but have yet to receive their certificates from UDS, which administers their programs.

At a press conference in Walewale, the group voiced their frustration over the delay. The spokesperson, Christy Avuyem, explained that the prolonged wait for certificates has caused severe distress and disappointment among the students and their families. “Our parents and guardians think we’ve wasted their money and feel deceived. They’re disappointed in us, their wards, and spouses,” Avuyem stated.

The impact of the delay extends beyond family disappointment. The students highlighted how the absence of their certificates has impeded their personal and professional growth. “We cannot seek admissions, promotions, or pursue higher education because of the absence of our certificates,” Avuyem noted. The students compared UDS unfavorably to other universities, which typically issue certificates within four months after program completion. They argued that the delay undermines the university’s reputation and effectiveness.

The group’s dissatisfaction is directed towards specific university officials, including the Director of Information Technology, Dr. Abdul Wahid Mohammed, whom they accuse of unprofessional conduct and indifference to student issues. “He is unconcerned about our well-being and refuses to attend to our issues even when we visit the school,” they claimed. Another official, Mr. Sammy from the Students Data System Unit, is also criticized for failing to authorize the printing of certificates.

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In addition to Dr. Mohammed, the students called for the removal of Dr. Cecilia Alimatu Issaka, Director for Distance and Continuing Education, and Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan, the University’s Vice-Chancellor, citing their indifference to the students’ plight. The group believes these officials have failed in their responsibilities to ensure timely issuance of certificates, thereby negatively affecting the students’ future opportunities.

The ‘Concerned Students of the Sandwich Colleges of Education’ have given the university one week to resolve the issue by releasing their certificates. They have threatened to undertake radical actions if their demands are not met. Furthermore, they have urged the National Accreditation Board and the Ministry of Education to intervene and facilitate a resolution.

The students’ ultimatum underscores the broader issue of administrative inefficiency within educational institutions, particularly in the issuance of vital academic documents. The delay in issuing certificates not only affects students’ immediate career prospects but also tarnishes the reputation of the institution. The situation at UDS highlights the need for improved administrative processes and greater accountability from university officials.

The students of the sandwich programs at UDS have expressed deep dissatisfaction with the prolonged delay in receiving their certificates. They demand the removal of specific university officials, including Dr. Abdul Wahid Mohammed, for their perceived negligence and unprofessional behavior. With a one-week ultimatum issued, the students are prepared to take further action if their demands are not addressed, calling on higher authorities to step in and resolve the matter.