By Samuel SAM
In a compelling address at the 18th Harmattan School of the University for Development Studies, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Suma Bagbin, emphasised the critical need for African nations to unite as a continent rather than functioning as smaller states.
Mr. Bagbin urged African leaders to collaborate in addressing national issues and harnessing resources for collective development.
“Africa can only make a difference when it works as a continent, not as smaller states,” he said.
The two-day event, organized by the Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIR) under the theme “Accountable Governance, Violence Extremism, and the 2024 Election,” provided a platform for sharing research findings with staff, students, and stakeholders of UDS.
Highlighting the significance of Parliament as the highest institution overseeing the nation, Mr. Bagbin reassured his commitment to leading the Ghanaian Parliament in passing laws that serve the national interest and gain broad acceptance.
Addressing the Electoral Commission (EC), Mr. Bagbin emphasized the importance of listening to the people of Ghana and doing what is right to secure support for proposed bills. He stressed Parliament’s role in holding the EC accountable and supporting legislation that aligns with the nation’s needs.
In his plea to political parties and activists, he urged for fairness, decency, and accuracy in shaping public opinion, emphasizing the need for objectivity and impartiality in national matters.
Northern Regional Minister Alhaji Shani Alhassan Shaibu pledged collaboration with the university to advance the development agenda of UDS, Northern Ghana, and the country as a whole.
Security Analyst Expert Dr. Adam Bonaa acknowledged Ghana’s progress under democracy and encouraged a continuous reminder of this achievement. Research Professor Prof. Stephen Kendie highlighted the link between violence extremism and unmet human needs, urging the younger generation to deepen and sustain democratic ideals.
Vice Chancellor of UDS Prof. Seidu Al-Hassan emphasized Ghana’s reputation as a democratic role model and the need to maintain high standards in the upcoming election.
Director of IIR, Prof Mamudu A Akudugu, reiterated the school’s mission to influence policy and governance for economic growth at both the Northern and National levels.
