The Volta Regional Youth Wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is vehemently opposed to the University of Health and Allied Sciences’ (UHAS) decision to confer an honorary doctorate degree on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.They are appalled and disappointed by this move, given the President’s policies and actions. These policies and actions, they say, have had a devastating impact on the Volta region and the nation as a whole.
In a statement released by Volta Regional Youth Wing of the National Democratic Congress, they demand the Vice Chancellor and University Council immediately cease all actions related to this undeserved honor. They highlighted UHAS was established and developed by the Mills-Mahama-led NDC administration, which provided the vision, resources, and initial development that has made the university what it is today. The current government has made no significant contributions to UHAS, and their neglect of critical infrastructure projects, including roads, and failure to provide necessary funding for lecturers and staff, is a stark reminder of their disregard for the university and the region.
They lamented that the claims by UHAS authorities that the NPP government secured funding for the China Phase II project is misleading. The relationships for continuous funding through grants from the Chinese were laid down long ago by the late President Mills even before the first phase of the University construction started.
They believe this honorary degree proposal is a blatant partisan move that undermines UHAS’s reputation and integrity. The university must remain neutral and avoid political controversies. This conferment not only tarnishes UHAS’s reputation but also sends a dangerous message to the youth and future leaders of this country, implying an endorsement of the numerous failings and misdeeds that have defined the current administration.
They urge the UHAS community, alumni, and stakeholders to stand with us against this misguided initiative. They promised not to stand idly by while the legacy of UHAS is compromised by this undeserved honor. They therefore demand that the Vice Chancellor and Council act in the best interests of the university and the nation by withdrawing this unmeritorious and undeserving honor.
They added that if their warning goes unheeded, they will be compelled to explore all lawful and democratic means to ensure their voices are heard.