The University for Development Studies (UDS) has sworn in newly elected officers of the Central Students Representative Council (SRC) and the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), marking the beginning of a new chapter in student leadership and representation at the University.

The ceremony, organised by the Office of the Dean of Students’ Affairs, was held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, and brought together University authorities, student leaders and members of the student community.

Addressing the gathering, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Alhassan congratulated the newly elected officers and urged them to regard their positions as a responsibility to the student body rather than an avenue for personal recognition.

He encouraged the new leaders to work closely with the University authorities, listen to the concerns of students and pursue their mandate with maturity, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility.

“Leadership is not about the position you occupy; it is about the responsibility you assume and the difference you make in the lives of the people you lead,” the Pro-Vice-Chancellor said.

He further urged the officers to promote dialogue and constructive engagement in addressing student concerns, stressing that the University remained committed to creating an environment in which students could freely express their views while respecting established institutional structures.

The Dean of Students, Dr. Umar Haruna also charged the newly elected officers to make the welfare and interests of students the central focus of their administration.

He reminded them that the SRC was an important link between students and University management and, therefore, had a responsibility to communicate students’ concerns accurately while also helping students to understand and appreciate University policies.

“You have been entrusted with the voice of the student body. Use that voice responsibly, constructively and in the interest of the University and the students you represent,” the Dean advised.

The Dean also called on the new officers to demonstrate discipline, respect and inclusiveness in the discharge of their duties, while encouraging them to work collaboratively rather than allow differences to undermine the effectiveness of the Council.

The highlight of the ceremony was the swearing-in of the newly elected Central SRC/NUGS officers by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Alhassan.

The officers formally pledged to uphold the Constitution of the University and the SRC, faithfully discharge the responsibilities entrusted to them and serve the interests of the student body with honesty and dedication.

The oath-taking marked the formal assumption of office by the new leadership and set the stage for the implementation of their programmes and policies for the new term.

In his remarks, the newly sworn-in Central SRC President Benedict Anku expressed appreciation to the University authorities, students and all those who contributed to the successful election and transition.

He pledged that his administration would prioritise student welfare, effective representation and constructive engagement with University management.

“We recognise the weight of the mandate that has been entrusted to us. We will listen to our students, engage constructively with management and work to ensure that the concerns of students receive the attention they deserve,” the President said.

He called for the support and cooperation of the entire student body, stressing that the success of the SRC would depend not only on the elected officers but also on the collective commitment of students to building a stronger University community.

The Central SRC remains a critical component of student governance at UDS. Beyond organising student activities, the Council provides a structured platform through which students can communicate their concerns, aspirations and suggestions to University management.

It also plays an important role in promoting student welfare, leadership development, responsible citizenship and constructive dialogue within the University community.

With the new officers now formally sworn into office, expectations are high that the administration will use its mandate to strengthen the relationship between students and management and contribute meaningfully to the continued development of the University.

Story by: Abdul Hayi Moomen
UDS Media