The Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in Wa in the Upper West Region is set to receive a major infrastructure boost as its alumni association collaborates with foreign investors to construct modern student hostels.
This initiative aims to tackle the university’s long-standing accommodation challenges, which significantly affect student welfare and academic performance.
For years, SDD-UBIDS has struggled with inadequate hostel facilities, forcing many students to seek accommodation in distant, overcrowded, and often expensive private residences.
The lack of on-campus housing has increased transportation costs and security concerns and reduced participation in academic and extracurricular activities.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the SDD-UBIDS Alumni Association has taken decisive action to address the crisis.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the alumni, Association President Zakaria Aliu Domanangmine welcomed attendees while emphasizing the significance of their presence in shaping the association’s future.
“Your commitment here today speaks volumes about our collective dedication to this institution and its alumni network,” he stated.
The AGM served as a platform to review financial reports, audit findings, and strategic plans aimed at enhancing alumni engagement and supporting the university.
A crucial point of discussion was the association’s budget, with members expected to deliberate on resource allocation to sustain ongoing projects and initiatives.
Domanangmine also acknowledged the relentless efforts of members who have worked behind the scenes to ensure the association’s success.
“It is through your dedication that we continue to grow stronger,” he noted, urging active participation in the discussions. The meeting provided an opportunity for members to voice concerns, propose new initiatives, and reinforce alumni unity, with expectations that the outcomes would shape the association’s direction for the coming year.
One of the most critical announcements at the AGM was the alumni’s partnership with foreign investors to fund the construction of student hostels.
Domanangmine revealed that the partners, Zuri of African Shea Limited, have already had preliminary discussions with the university’s management during their first visit to the campus.
According to him, the management of the university is set to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the partners, a move that will formalize the collaboration and pave the way for construction to begin.
“Many students face significant hardships due to the limited housing options available. This partnership is a major step toward improving student living conditions and enhancing the university’s appeal to prospective applicants,” Domanangmine stated.
The project, expected to commence after signing the MOU, will feature modern facilities, including furnished rooms, study areas, and improved sanitation. It aligns with the university’s broader goal of enhancing infrastructure to provide a conducive learning environment.