The newly elected executives of the University for Development Studies National Union of Ghana Students, UDS-NUGS, have met with the Northern Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service to strengthen the already established relationship and enhance safety on all UDS campuses.

The courtesy call, held at the Regional Fire Service Headquarters in Tamale, brought together NUGS leaders from the Tamale and Nyankpala campuses with senior officers of the Service.

Welcoming the student leaders, the Northern Regional Fire Service Commander, ACFO I Joseph Koranteng, said there has been a cordial relationship between the University and the Ghana National Fire Service over the years.

He noted that efforts have been made to establish Fire Service stations on the various campuses of UDS and urged the student leadership to champion that initiative.

"Response time is very important in emergencies. We are always efficient and well prepared to respond, but we need to strengthen the collaboration between student leadership and the Fire Service," Mr. Koranteng stated.

In his closing remarks, the Regional Commander called on University management to ensure that all structures, including private hostels, should have permits and are pursued to acquire certification from the Ghana National Fire Service.

He also charged UDS-NUGS to purchase basic preventive fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and placed at vantage points.

"We will also pay a visit to the new Vice-Chancellor to see the way forward in ensuring the safety of the institution," he assured.

Other officers who addressed the delegation included DOI Nahiru Mohammed, DOIII Bertha Kavaarpuo, DOIII Peter Nelson Dokpuie, and ADOI Yussif Alidu.

The Safety Inspector acknowledged the efforts made by University management and described having a fire station on campus as a top priority. He further called for proper monitoring of facilities by University management.

Speaking on behalf of UDS-NUGS, the UDS Tamale Campus President, Mr. Zampiaw Isaac, described fire fighting and prevention as a collaborative responsibility for both students and the Ghana National Fire Service.

He said the union is planning to hold a seminar in the next academic year with a dedicated session for the Fire Service to educate and train students on fire prevention and disaster management.

"We propose to collaborate with the Fire Service to have training for students. We also call on the general public to recognize the sacrifices that the Fire Service is making," he said.

The UDS Nyankpala Campus President proposed that student leadership should establish Fire Safety Clubs on the various campuses to promote awareness.

The UDS Local NUGS Women Commissioner also expressed gratitude to the Ghana National Fire Service for their time.

The meeting ended on a pleasant note, with both sides committing to a working partnership to improve safety across UDS campuses.

Story by; 
Ibrahim Abubakari Dinnani
UDS Media