The University for Development Studies (UDS) has inaugurated a new Audit Committee, with members officially sworn into office at a ceremony held on April 7, 2026, at the Central Administration Block on the Tamale Campus.

The brief but significant ceremony commenced the Registrar, Mr. Nuruddin Issah Abubakar, introducing key university officials and representatives from the Internal Audit Agency present at the event.

Members of the Committee were administered the Oath of Office and the Oath of Secrecy, affirming their commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality in the discharge of their responsibilities.

As part of the proceedings, Dr. Abdul Karim Hatsu, one of the three independent members of the Committee, was elected Chair after being duly nominated and seconded by the five-member body. In his acceptance remarks, he pledged to provide strong leadership and ensure the effective functioning of the Committee.

“I am honoured by the confidence reposed in me by my colleagues. I am committed to working collaboratively to strengthen oversight and ensure that the Committee delivers on its mandate with diligence and integrity,” Dr. Hatsu stated.

A representative from the Internal Audit Agency used the occasion to outline key statutory reporting requirements and timelines for the Committee. These include the submission of quarterly audit reports within one month after the end of each quarter, the Audit Committee’s annual report by June 30, and the annual audit plan by January 31 each year.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan to highlight its progress in strengthening internal audit systems alongside its broader institutional growth. UDS currently boasts a student population of approximately 27,000, reflecting its expanding academic footprint and increasing demand for its programmes.

The inauguration of the Audit Committee is expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and good governance practices within the University, in line with national regulatory frameworks and best practices in public financial management.

Story by Subaiha Ibrahim
UDS Media