In a concerted effort to enhance the safety and security of students and staff, the University for Development Studies (UDS) has launched two-weeks capacity-building training for its security personnel, commencing on July 29, 2024 and scheduled to end on August 11, 2024. Spearheaded by the Department of Peace and Security Studies, under the leadership of Dr. Mohammed Sanka, and in collaboration with the Northern Regional Police Command, the program aims to equip UDS security staff with essential knowledge and skills to effectively maintain peace and security on campus.

The training commenced with a speech by the Dean of the Faculty of Sustainable Development Studies, Dr. Adams Achanso. He lauded the university security staff for their unwavering dedication and hard work in ensuring campus safety. Dr. Achanso urged them to remain vigilant and attentive to emerging issues, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to prevent security threats. Additionally, the Dean announced plans to introduce new academic programs in peace and security, offering BSc and MSc degrees to support the professional development of security personnel and other interested students.

Dr. Iddrisu Mohammed Tanko, the Deputy Registrar of the university, also praised the Department of Peace and Security Studies for organizing the training and encouraged the security staff to stay committed to their duties for the betterment of the university community.

Chief Superintendent Baba Amanga, the Northern Regional Crime Officer led a session focusing on the role of UDS security staff in criminal investigations. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the university’s security team and the Ghana Police Service to address student welfare cases and other security concerns. He advised the security staff to be vigilant and to ensure that law breakers are prosecuted according to the law.

Participants engaged in discussions about common crimes, with Chief Superintendent Amanga highlighting the significance of proper procedures when apprehending suspects, including conducting thorough interviews and interrogations. He also pointed out the differences between criminal and administrative matters, stressing the need for careful handling to avoid unjust punishment.

A key focus of the training was on the importance of collaboration with the Ghana Police Service in handling security threats effectively. This partnership, he noted, would prevent unlawful actions and ensure thorough investigations. Chief Superintendent Amanga covered crime reporting procedures, emphasizing the necessity of timely and accurate crime reporting, noting essential steps such as ensuring the crime occurred, providing detailed descriptions of suspects, and obtaining search warrants when needed. He also stressed the importance of preserving evidence to aid investigations.

The training program also included sessions on crime scene management, evidence gathering, intelligence gathering, personal safety, and patrol procedures, all aimed at enhancing the overall effectiveness of the UDS security team. Through this comprehensive capacity-building initiative, UDS reaffirms its commitment to fostering a secure and peaceful environment for its academic community.

Story by:
Ali Abdur Razaq Danbo, Musah Humul-Kulsum, Kamaldeen Fadatoyo and Yakubu Issifu (UDS Media)