The Volta Regional Youth Wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed strong opposition to the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)’s proposal to confer an honorary doctorate degree on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The Youth Wing demands that the Vice Chancellor and the University Council halt all actions toward this proposed conferment immediately.
In a statement, the Youth Wing described the proposal as “infuriating and unacceptable,” arguing that President Akufo-Addo’s policies have significantly undermined the welfare and development of the Volta region and the nation.
They highlighted that UHAS was established by the Mills-Mahama-led NDC administration, which provided the vision, resources, and initial development to make the university what it is today.
The Youth Wing also contested claims that the NPP secured funding for the China Phase II project, asserting that the groundwork for continuous funding through Chinese grants was laid by President Mills even before the first phase of the university’s construction began.
They challenged the current administration to show any significant contributions made to UHAS since President Akufo-Addo took office.
The statement criticized the current government for failing to provide necessary financial clearance for employing lecturers and staff at UHAS and for abandoning university road projects started by the NDC.
They argued that the Volta region has faced systematic neglect under the current administration, with stalled critical infrastructure projects and an overall lack of fair national development.
Labeling the honorary degree proposal as a blatantly partisan move, the Youth Wing emphasized that UHAS, as an esteemed academic institution, must remain neutral and avoid political controversies.
They stated that conferring such an honor on President Akufo-Addo would tarnish UHAS’s reputation and send a dangerous message endorsing the administration’s alleged economic mismanagement, corruption, and marginalization of the Volta region.
The Youth Wing urged the Vice Chancellor and the UHAS Council to withdraw the proposed conferment and called on the UHAS community, alumni, and stakeholders to stand against this initiative.
They warned that if their demands are not met, they would explore all lawful and democratic means to ensure their voices are heard, including organizing massive and sustained demonstrations.
The statement concluded with a plea for the Vice Chancellor and Council to act in the best interests of the university and the nation by withdrawing the unmerited honor.
Source: adomonline.com
