The Institute of Business Management and Journalism (IBM&J) Tamale Learning Centre has urged the University for Development Studies (UDS) to revise its admission policy for Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates.
Currently, HND graduates are admitted to level 200 instead of level 300, requiring them to spend six years completing their first degree.
This policy has been described by IBM&J management as demotivating for prospective students.
The appeal was made by Charles Ayendago, the director of the Institute, during the 3rd congregation held in Tamale on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
“We are appealing to the university management to relook the current policy and admit HND graduates to do a two-year top-up instead of three years. This current practice makes most students apply to other universities instead of UDS,” Ayendago stated.
Ayendago also highlighted that the existing policy has led to approximately 90 percent of their students opting for other institutions that offer admission to level 300. “We have petitioned the university on this matter, and as we speak, that letter is still on the Vice Chancellor’s desk. We are yet to receive a response. In today’s competitive academic environment, offering a two-year top-up option is crucial,” he said.
The graduation ceremony, themed “Harmonious Communication: From the Pen to Impact the Populace for Peaceful Election 2024,” saw 92 students graduate. Of these, 42 received Diplomas in Journalism and Media Studies, and 50 graduated with HNDs in Communication Studies. Additionally, around 80 students were matriculated to pursue a Diploma Programme in Journalism and Media Studies.
In his keynote address, Dr. Mahama Seth Sayibu, a Communication Consultant and Head of the Department of Communication and Media Studies at UDS, emphasized the importance of journalists making thoughtful decisions about what stories to report and how to report them to foster societal opportunities and avoid violence.
He urged journalists, especially with the upcoming general elections, to verify their information before publication to maintain peace.
Dr. Sayibu described journalism as a noble profession and encouraged graduates to embody truth, honesty, diligence, devotion to duty, and patriotism.
Yapeiwura Dr. A.B.T Zakaria, Chief of Yapei in the Kusawgu Traditional Area and a former Registrar at UDS stressed the need for ongoing training and mentorship for journalists to enhance their skills and contributions to peace and harmony.
He advised journalists to avoid sensationalism and complacency, aiming instead for excellence and impactful journalism.
Meanwhile, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central Constituency and chairman for the ceremony, praised IBM&J for its dedication to training media professionals in the northern sector and pledged to sponsor interested students from his constituency at the school.
Source: Simon Unyan N/R Content Manager
