The University for Development Studies (UDS) has honoured the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, with an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of his remarkable dedication to promoting education, peace and social transformation across the Dagbon Kingdom and the Northern Region.
The ceremony, held in Tamale, highlighted the Ya-Na’s long-standing role in strengthening unity, driving sustainable development, and supporting educational advancement. It drew the attendance of Paramount Chiefs in Dagbon, government officials, Members of Parliament, religious and traditional leaders, students, and representatives of state institutions and civil society groups.
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UDS Vice-Chancellor, Professor Seidu Alhassan, praised the Ya-Na for helping shift Dagbon from a historically conflict-prone area to one marked by cohesion and progress. He said the Overlord’s commitment to reconciliation, dialogue and youth development had significantly reinforced peace in the region.
Prof Alhassan noted the Ya-Na’s contribution to the university’s expansion, revealing that he had allocated 500 acres of land for a new UDS campus at Yendi and provided a facility to enable the start of academic programmes.
Responding through Dr Jacob Mahama, Chief of Zangbalun, Ya-Na Abukari II expressed gratitude to UDS, describing the honour as both recognition and a renewed call to further advance development in the Northern Region. He dedicated the award to the people of Dagbon and all who continue to support the kingdom’s progress.
Northern Regional Minister, Mr Ali Adolf John, commended UDS for recognising the Ya-Na’s transformative leadership, describing the honour as a well-deserved testament to his vision and service to society.
