In a significant ceremony at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo inaugurated the newly constructed Silver Jubilee Building, marking a major milestone in the university’s development and the President’s commitment to education in Ghana.

The Silver Jubilee Building, a three-storey complex designed to house lecture halls and offices, stands as a testament to President Akufo-Addo’s promise made in 2018 during UDS’s 25th-anniversary celebrations. Speaking at the inauguration, the President expressed his satisfaction with the completion of the building, emphasizing that it represents more than just a physical structure.

“This building symbolizes our shared vision for a brighter future, our commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, and our resolve to the development of our country,” the President stated. He noted that the structure serves as a catalyst for innovation and a hub for intellectual discourse, which will significantly enhance the academic environment for both students and faculty at UDS.

The President extended his gratitude to all those who played a role in bringing the project to fruition, including the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the university’s governing council, faculty, staff, students, and the contractors, Buildex Company Ltd. He praised their dedication and craftsmanship, which he said are evident in every corner of the new building.

As part of his remarks, President Akufo-Addo underscored the broader significance of education as a cornerstone of national development. He highlighted the considerable investments his government has made in the education sector, including a budgetary allocation of GH¢12.88 billion aimed at transforming education in Ghana.

“My government has expended considerable energy and resources on the education sector because we recognize that education is the most powerful tool we have to transform our nation,” the President said.

He also pointed to the success of the No Guarantor Policy, which has significantly improved access to tertiary education by removing financial barriers for students. The policy, he noted, has led to a 60.3% increase in the number of students seeking tertiary education between the 2016/2017 and 2022/2023 academic years. This surge in demand has prompted the government to establish four new universities across the country and expand existing facilities.

The President further reaffirmed his government’s commitment to research and academia, revealing that since 2020, GH¢226 million has been disbursed as research allowances, with an additional GH¢491 million allocated as book allowances. These investments, he stressed, are crucial for fostering an environment conducive to scholarly investigation and innovation.

Looking ahead, President Akufo-Addo called on universities to strengthen their ties with industry, government, and communities to ensure that their research and teaching are aligned with the nation’s development goals. He emphasized the critical role that universities play in training professionals across various fields, including science, engineering, law, and political science.

In closing, the President urged Ghanaians to support the Vice President, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the upcoming 2024 elections, praising his competence, resourcefulness, and vision for Ghana’s future.

The inauguration of the Silver Jubilee Building not only marks the completion of a promise made by President Akufo-Addo but also signals the beginning of a new chapter in the history of UDS. As the university community celebrates this achievement, the President’s words serve as a reminder of the collective effort required to build a brighter future for Ghana.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

On August 23, commencing at 10:39 a.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with Hon. Ms. Thulisile DLADLA, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, who is visiting Japan to attend Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Ministerial Meeting. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

At the outset, Minister Kamikawa expressed her appreciation for Eswatini’s consistent support for Japan’s position in international elections and expressed her desire for continued close cooperation in the international arena. Minister Kamikawa also mentioned that Eswatini is making arrangements to open its embassy in Tokyo, and expressed her hope that the opening of the embassy will further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Dladla expressed her gratitude for Japan’s support and her hope for further strengthening bilateral relations, including economic ties.
Minister Kamikawa expressed her desire to continue cooperation in the areas of food security and education, as well as to work with Eswatini to encourage further expansion of Japanese companies’ business and their investments.
The two ministers confirmed that Japan-Eswatini relations will be further developed towards TICAD 9 in the coming year.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

On August 23, commencing at 10:10 a.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Eltaher ELBAOUR, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the State of Libya. The summary of the meeting is as follows.

At the outset, Minister Kamikawa welcomed Acting Minister Elbaour’s visit to Japan following his visit in January this year.
Both sides welcomed the progress in cooperation between the two countries, and concurred on continuing to deepen cooperation, particularly in human resources development.
Both sides confirmed the importance of further developing Japan-Libya relations, including in the run-up to TICAD 9 in 2025.
The two sides also exchanged views on the cooperation in the international arena, including United Nations Security Council reform, the situation in the Middle East, and dealing with North Korea including on the abductions issue.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

President Wavel Ramkalawan received Father Christian Toulon, Father Emmanuel Boniface, and Deacon Aubrey Pon Wayne at State House this morning. The visit marked a significant occasion as the newly ordained clergy paid their respects to the Head of State.

President Ramkalawan congratulated the clergymen on their recent ordinations, commending their dedication to serving the community as young Seychellois leaders. During their meeting, they discussed their mission to address the spiritual needs of the nation, their vision for the youth of Seychelles and the various challenges they face. The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting their initiatives.

President Ramkalawan extended his best wishes to the clergy on their spiritual journey, encouraging them to continue their vital role in guiding and uplifting the moral and spiritual well-being of the nation.

This visit highlights the government’s recognition of the crucial role religious leaders play in the Seychellois society and reflects the strong, ongoing relationship between the state and religious institutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.