The University for Development Studies (UDS) has strongly denied allegations linking the institution to fraudulent activities related to the National Service Scheme (NSS).
The university described the claims as baseless and damaging to its reputation, emphasizing its commitment to integrity and transparency.
In a statement signed by Abdul Hayi Moomen, Director of Public Affairs, UDS addressed a publication by The Fourth Estate, which alleged that the university was involved in submitting fraudulent data to the NSS.
“The attention of the management of the University for Development Studies (UDS) has been drawn to a publication by The Fourth Estate, which alleges that UDS was among the universities used to perpetrate fraudulent activities related to the National Service Scheme (NSS)”
University for Development Studies (UDS)
The report specifically claimed that in the 2022/2023 service year, 226 students named “Abubakari Fuseni” were fraudulently registered as Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Development Studies (BA IDS) students at UDS for the NSS.
However, the University for Development Studies (UDS) has firmly rejected this claim. Setting the record straight, the university clarified that it does not offer a Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Development Studies program.
UDS explained that since 2018, when its former Wa Campus was restructured and transformed into the independent Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), it has discontinued the program.
Consequently, the University emphasized that any assertion suggesting otherwise is inaccurate.
“The claim that 226 students bearing the same name were enrolled in the BA IDS program at UDS in the 2022/2023 academic year is not only false but also practically impossible”.
University for Development Studies (UDS)
Furthermore, the university emphasized its commitment to maintaining rigorous verification protocols across all administrative and academic operations.
It highlighted that before student data is submitted to external institutions such as the National Service Scheme (NSS), thorough audits and validation procedures are conducted to uphold accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.
UDS reaffirmed its dedication to the highest standards of integrity, stating that its student records are meticulously maintained, systematically verified, and subjected to stringent auditing processes.
The institution assured the public that these measures are in place to prevent inaccuracies and maintain credibility in all academic and administrative engagements.
Commitment to Transparency, Ethical Governance
Furthermore, the university reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency, ethical governance, and academic excellence.
It assured students, parents, alumni, and the general public that its longstanding reputation remains intact and unblemished by the misinformation being circulated.
Emphasizing its dedication to upholding the highest standards in education and administration, the institution reaffirmed that it remains a trusted center of learning, free from any compromise or misconduct.
“It is inconceivable that UDS could be linked to the alleged fraudulent activities,” the statement added, urging the public to disregard the misleading claims.
The university also urged media outlets to uphold responsible journalism by thoroughly verifying information before publication.
It stressed the importance of accurate reporting in preventing the spread of misinformation, which could unjustly harm the reputation of institutions.
UDS called on journalists and media organizations to exercise due diligence and adhere to ethical reporting standards to maintain public trust.
Reaffirming its core values of integrity, accountability, and service to the nation, the university emphasized its unwavering commitment to academic and institutional excellence.
It encouraged all stakeholders, including students, parents, alumni, and the broader public, to remain confident in its operations and continue to support its mission of delivering quality education and fostering national development.
The controversy surrounding the National Service Scheme (NSS) allegations has sparked broader concerns about transparency and accountability within Ghana’s educational and public service sectors.
The issue has drawn attention to the need for stringent verification processes and institutional integrity in handling academic records and official data.
Despite these concerns, the University for Development Studies (UDS) made it clear that it will not, under any circumstances, compromise its integrity or credibility.
