The University for Development Studies (UDS) has officially welcomed the pioneer cohort of students into its newly established Faculty of Law in a historic matriculation ceremony held at the Nyankpala Campus. The event, which marked a significant milestone in the university’s academic expansion, was attended by key members of the university administration, faculty, and students.

The Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, in his address, highlighted the importance of this moment, describing it as "a new dawn for legal education in Northern Ghana." He emphasized that the establishment of the Faculty of Law is a testament to UDS’ commitment to broadening academic opportunities and contributing meaningfully to national development.

"Your presence here today is not by chance," Prof. Al-hassan told the matriculants. "You are part of a pioneering journey that will define the legacy of legal education at UDS. You are the first, and that comes with great responsibility."

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the selection process for the 2024/2025 academic year was highly competitive. A total of 323 applications were received, with 270 candidates sitting for the entrance examination. After a rigorous selection process, only 129 students were admitted. Notably, all admitted students accepted their offers, leading to a 100% enrollment rate.

However, Prof. Al-hassan acknowledged challenges that limited the intake of students. "It is regrettable that only 48% of qualified applicants could be admitted due to constraints such as insufficient infrastructure, limited lecture spaces, and a shortage of faculty members," he stated, assuring that efforts are underway to address these challenges.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed concern over gender disparity among the admitted students. "Out of the 129 admitted students, 111 (86%) are males, while only 18 (14%) are females. As an institution committed to gender equity, we will continue to encourage and support more female students to pursue legal education in future admissions."

The matriculation oath was administered by the Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, officially inducting the students into the university. 

The ceremony was graced by the presence of several senior university officials, including the Principal of the Nyankpala Campus, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu; the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Raymond Atuguba; the Director of Audit, Mr. Abubakri Abdulai; the Director of Works and Physical Development, Ing. Kwame Debrah; the University Librarian, Mr. Edwin Thompson; the Director of Academic Affairs, Mr. Abdul Wahab Yahaya; the Deputy Director of Finance, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, the Deputy Registrar in Cahrge of the Nyankpala Campus, Mr. Joseoh Attiah, among other Deans and Directors of the university.

The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed UDS’ commitment to providing the best resources, faculty, and opportunities for students. He emphasized that the university is actively working to expand infrastructure and establish partnerships with the judiciary, law firms, and government agencies to enhance practical legal training.

The ceremony concluded with a call to students to embrace their studies with passion and commitment. "This is your moment, embrace it, own it, and make a difference," Prof. Al-hassan urged.

With the formalities concluded, the students of the UDS Faculty of Law embarked on their academic journey, poised to contribute to the legal profession and the broader society.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)