The University for Development Studies (UDS) on Monday, July 7, 2025, held a comprehensive orientation programme for first-year students embarking on its flagship Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP). The ceremony took place at the Valley View University Campus in Techiman and brought together university management, staff, government representatives, and local authorities.

The TTFPP, a hallmark of UDS’ unique academic model, was introduced in 1994 to bridge theory and practice through community-based experiential learning. It immerses students in rural and peri-urban communities where they work on development-oriented projects, contributing to national development while acquiring valuable practical skills.

In his keynote address, Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Professor Seidu Al-hassan, recounted the programme's humble beginnings with just 38 students in 1994. “Today, we are deploying over 10,000 students, comprising both level 100 and level 200 students, into communities across the country,” he announced. He reminded students that the TTFPP is a core academic requirement with associated grading and assessment.

Prof. Seidu Al-hassan urged students to uphold the university’s values of discipline, teamwork, and integrity. “No drugs, alcoholism, promiscuity, theft, gambling or laziness towards work. Be disciplined, hardworking, law-abiding and self-restrained,” he cautioned. He further encouraged students to strive for excellence, citing the various awards available for outstanding performance under the TTFPP.

The Director of the Directorate of Community Relations and Outreach Programmes (DCROP), Prof. Addah Weseh, and the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, both charged the students to leave a lasting impact in the communities they would serve. “Be self-disciplined and leave positive marks,” they urged.
The Registrar of Valley View University, Mr. Amos Opoku Boateng, Esq., commended the students for their evident discipline and motivation. “We are excited to host you and will continue to offer support and guidance throughout your stay,” he assured.

Also present was Mr. Stephen Botwey, Deputy Regional Director of the Ghana Education Service (GES) in the Bono Region, who warned students against meddling in local politics. “Political issues in Bono are very sensitive, and involvement by outsiders may pose serious risks,” he said.

Representing the Techiman Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Fei Boakye Solomon, an alumnus of UDS and Assistant Director at the Techiman Municipal Assembly, testified to the impact of the TTFPP on national development. “As a proud UDS graduate, I know first-hand the transformational impact this programme has on communities. Focus on your work and stay away from trouble,” he advised.

The students also received practical and psychological guidance from key university officials. Dr. Amos Alale, Director of Counselling, UDS, spoke on the psychology of adjusting to new environments, while Dr. John Kaseh, Acting Director of UDS Health Services, advised students to avoid illicit drugs and self-medication. “The university’s health services are ready to support you throughout the programme,” he assured.

Prof. Alhassan Musah, Dean of Students, emphasized the importance of lawful behavior and respect for local customs. “If you respect the communities and their rules, they will embrace and support you,” he stated.

Among other notable dignitaries present were Prof. Ibrahim Yakubu Seini, Dr. Iddrisu Mohammed Tanko (representing the Registrar), Ing. Kwame Debrah, Prof. Abukari Abdulai of DAPQA, Prof. Joseph Awuni, Dean of the School of Economics, Dr. Nelson Opoku, Dean of the Faculty of Biosciences, and Mr. Abukari Abdulai, Internal Auditor.

The orientation marks the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey for the students, as they step into the real world to contribute meaningfully to national development while sharpening their practical skills.

Story by Ibrahim Ayuba
(UDS Media)