New UDS Vice-Chancellor Pledges Inclusive Leadership to Drive Development and Academic Excellence

Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu Assumes Office with Commitment to Transparency, Collaboration and Institutional Growth

The University for Development Studies (UDS) has ushered in a new era of leadership with the official assumption of office by **Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu** as Vice-Chancellor, a transition that stakeholders believe presents an opportunity to strengthen academic excellence, innovation, and community-focused development.

The handover ceremony, held at the Central Administration Block on the Tamale Campus, marked the formal transfer of leadership from the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, **Prof. Seidu Al-hassan**, who successfully steered the affairs of the University during his tenure.

In his farewell remarks, Prof. Al-hassan urged his successor to lead with integrity, reminding him that strong leadership is built on honesty, fairness, and unwavering commitment to the core values of the University.

He emphasized that remaining principled in decision-making would not only strengthen confidence in the institution but also inspire staff and students to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.

Responding to the charge, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu assured the University community of a leadership style anchored on openness, consultation, and transparency.

He pledged to operate an open-door policy that encourages active engagement with staff, students, alumni, traditional authorities, development partners, and other stakeholders to collectively advance the University's mission.

According to the new Vice-Chancellor, sustainable progress can only be achieved when leadership listens, values diverse perspectives, and works collaboratively to address institutional challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Education advocates say inclusive leadership is essential for universities seeking to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive global academic environment. By promoting dialogue and shared responsibility, institutions are better positioned to strengthen research, improve teaching and learning, expand innovation, and respond to the development needs of society.

As Ghana continues to rely on its universities to produce skilled professionals and generate research that informs national development, stakeholders believe effective leadership will play a critical role in preparing graduates to address the country's socio-economic challenges.

The University for Development Studies has long distinguished itself through its commitment to practical education, community engagement, and development-oriented research. Many believe the new administration has an opportunity to build on this legacy by strengthening partnerships, promoting innovation, and expanding opportunities for students and researchers.

The peaceful transition of leadership also reflects the importance of continuity, institutional stability, and good governance within higher education.

With a commitment to transparency, consultation, and collaboration, expectations are high that Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu's tenure will further position UDS as a centre of academic excellence and a catalyst for sustainable development in northern Ghana and beyond.

As the University embarks on this new chapter, members of the UDS community and education stakeholders alike are hopeful that the new Vice-Chancellor's leadership will inspire innovation, strengthen institutional growth, and advance the University's vision of transforming lives through quality education, research, and community service.