Professor Abdulai Abubakari, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University for Development Studies (UDS), has been honoured with an Award for Excellence in Higher Education in recognition of his outstanding contributions to academia and educational leadership.

The prestigious award, which came with a certificate and citation, was conferred on Prof. Abubakari during the 4th ECOWAS Multidisciplinary International Academic Conference, held from July 14 to 17, 2025, at the Yiri Lodge Conference Centre, Institute of African Studies, University of Ghana, Legon.

Organised by the Research Network of International Scholars (TRENIS) in collaboration with the Institut Bilingual Libre du Togo (IBLT), this year’s conference explored the theme: “Augmented Technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Transformation in a Global Environment.” It brought together leading academics, researchers, and policymakers from across the ECOWAS subregion and beyond to share insights on the intersection of emerging technologies and development.

Prof. Abubakari's recognition places him among a distinguished group of scholars and public figures celebrated at the event for their scholarly achievements and impact in shaping education and research across Africa and the diaspora. Other award recipients included Prof. A. B. C Robert, School of Computer Engineering, Tennessee, USA, Prof. Ezekiel Uzor Okike, Department of Computer Science, University of Botswana, Dr. Olyemi Oyebanji, First Lady of Ekiti State, Nigeria, Prof. M. O. B. Mohammed, Director, Centre of General Nigeria Studies, Lagos State University, Prof. Adebayo Francis Komolafe, Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan, Prof. Eragbai Jerome Isuku, Department of Educational Management, University of Ibadan, Dr. Emmanuel A. Isah, University of Ibadan, and Prof. Isah Olubukola, Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

The ECOWAS Multidisciplinary International Academic Conference has become a reputable platform for celebrating intellectual excellence while promoting cross-border academic collaboration. Prof. Abubakari’s recognition is a testament to UDS’s growing influence in international academic circles and its role in advancing higher education in Ghana and West Africa.