UDS confers honorary doctorate on Ya-Na Abukari II

The University for Development Studies (UDS) has conferred an honorary doctorate on the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to advancing quality education in northern Ghana.

The award acknowledges his significant contributions to sustainable educational growth, social transformation and peace within and beyond the Dagbon Kingdom—formally making him a certificate holder and alumnus of the university.

It also recognises his distinguished leadership, immense contributions to peacebuilding, and the development of northern Ghana.

Over the years, the university has honoured individuals whose contributions have spurred development and inspired younger generations to harness their talents, become innovators and create employment rather than rely on seeking jobs.

Speaking at the durbar, Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, praised the overlord’s natural ability to transform conflict into cohesion, unity and development—traits admired by many.

He added that the Ya-Na has reconciled rival factions, promoted forgiveness and encouraged dialogue to drive sustainable development and peace across the kingdom.

“Through his efforts, Dagbon has risen again and become more united, stable and forward-looking. He remains deeply committed to peace and youth empowerment as custodian of Dagbon and through his development partnerships,” he said.

Since his coronation in 2019, Ndan Mahama II has initiated several projects aimed at consolidating peace and improving living standards across Dagbon. Among these is the construction of a new Gbewaa Palace, envisioned as a unifying symbol for the kingdom.

Prof. Al-Hassan also disclosed that the overlord has allocated 500 acres of land for the establishment of a UDS campus in the Yendi Municipality, and has handed over a facility to enable the university to commence academic programmes immediately.

He emphasised that the Ya-Na has consistently championed education as the engine of growth, always seeking opportunities for his people. He further noted that UDS remains committed to practical, community-oriented education that nurtures future leaders—especially within the Dagbon Kingdom.

“Since its establishment in 1992, UDS has remained deeply committed to national development through its unique Third Trimester Practical Field Programme (TTFPP) and applied research model, unlike traditional universities,” he said.

He added that the institution was founded with a mandate to blend academic work with community engagement, focusing on poverty reduction, food security and sustainable development, particularly in northern Ghana and underserved regions.

For his part, Ya-Na Abukari II expressed gratitude to the university for the honour, describing it as both recognition of his efforts and a challenge to contribute even more to the growth and development of the Northern Region and beyond.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the progress of UDS.

“This honour from UDS is not mine alone; it belongs to everyone in the Dagbon Kingdom and all those who contribute with their resources and kindness,” he said.

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