The Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), located in the Upper West Region, has officially matriculated 1,226 postgraduate Distance and Weekend Students for the 2025/2026 academic year, marking a major milestone in the institution’s expanding academic reach.
The matriculating class consists of 801 males (65%) and 425 females (35%), representing an impressive 58% increase in postgraduate enrolment compared to the previous year. University officials say this significant rise reflects growing public confidence in SDD-UBIDS’s postgraduate programmes, which continue to gain national attention for their quality and relevance.
The colourful ceremony, held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the University’s new auditorium, brought together faculty, administrators, staff, invited guests, and the fresh cohort of students.
VC Reaffirms Commitment to Academic Excellence
Speaking at the event, Prof. Emmanuel Kanchebe Derbile, Vice-Chancellor of SDD-UBIDS, congratulated the newly admitted students and reiterated the University’s dedication to creating a supportive academic environment grounded in innovation, intellectual curiosity, and excellence.
“Our postgraduate programmes are carefully designed to meet national and international standards,” he said. “We aim to equip students with the knowledge, analytical skills, and leadership competencies needed to tackle complex development challenges and excel professionally.”
Prof. Derbile encouraged the students to make full use of university resources, actively participate in academic seminars, and maintain the highest standards of discipline and integrity throughout their studies.
Expanding Access Through Flexible Learning
A key highlight of the Vice-Chancellor’s address was the University’s continued commitment to widening access to higher education. He noted that the Institute for Distance Education and Learning (IDEL), established in 2024, has become a pivotal channel for professionals and working adults seeking flexible and affordable pathways to further their studies.
The Institute continues to attract significant interest nationwide, offering programmes tailored for individuals who require adaptable learning schedules without compromising quality.
Beginning a Transformative Journey
Prof. Derbile described the matriculation as the start of a transformative academic journey for the students. He charged them to build meaningful networks, collaborate on impactful research, and use the knowledge gained to promote development that is just, inclusive, and sustainable.
“I urge you to take full ownership of your learning journey, make meaningful connections, and contribute to building a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world,” he told the matriculants.
With the successful induction of the 2025/2026 class, SDD-UBIDS continues to establish itself as one of Ghana’s fast-growing hubs of academic excellence, contributing to national development through advanced learning and research.
