As part of measures aimed at addressing the growing demand for students accommodation, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, Vice-Chancellor for the University for Development Studies (UDS) has officially commenced construction of a 500-bed hostel on the Tamale Campus. The sod cutting ceremony was held on 1st October 2025 with Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, Vice-Chancellor, cutting the sod. 

The Vice-Chancellor made mention that this new hostel will serve 80% of students and help to ease the pressure on student’s housing, which has been a growing challenge at UDS, Tamale Campus. "This hostel will not only provide students with adequate accommodation but will also create an environment that promotes comfort and well-being. With these added facilities, we are looking at a space that encourages both academic and social interaction," Prof. Seidu said.

Currently, the demand for on-campus accommodation far exceeds the available spaces, leaving many students scrambling for alternatives in surrounding communities. The 500-bed facility is expected to reduce this deficit significantly.

The hostel, which will be a seven-storey facility with a sports arena, restaurant and car park, is a project of the Ghana Universities Staff Superannuation Scheme (GUSSS) and is expected to be completed within 24 months. It will be constructed by FT Global Investment Limited  and located at the back of the campus mall, which will link to Kingsly Adu Hall on the Tamale Campus.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Deputy Registrar, Dr. Iddrisu M. Tanko, the Director of WPD, Ing. Kwame Debrah, the Acting Director of Procurement, Mr. Safianu Mahama, a representative from GAUA, officials from Audit Directorate and Public Affairs Directorate and officials from Works and Physical Development Directorate which are serving as the consultants for the project.

Speaking at the ceremony, Architect Jawhari, elaborated on the design and functionality of the new hostel. He noted that, beyond its 500-bed capacity, the building will include several modern ancillary facilities aimed at enhancing the living experience for students. These will include a restaurant, a gymnasium, car park and a Students Common Room.

"This hostel will not only provide students with adequate accommodation but will also create an environment that promotes comfort and well-being. With these added facilities, we are looking at a space that encourages both academic and social interaction," Prof. Seidu Al-hassan said.

Currently, the demand for on-campus accommodation far exceeds the available spaces, leaving many students scrambling for alternatives in surrounding communities. The 500-bed facility is expected to reduce this deficit significantly.

 
The GUSSS hostel, once completed, will be a another modern, eco-friendly structure that contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the Tamale Campus. As UDS continues to grow and attract more students, investments in infrastructure, such as this one, are crucial to maintaining its reputation as a leading institution in the country.

The hostel construction aligns with the university’s broader agenda of creating an enabling environment for learning and research, with a focus on student welfare.

Story by:
Iddrisu Abdul Malik
(UDS Media)