A study on students' participation in the administration of the University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine student participation in the administration of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Tamale. Areas investigated were student participation both at the University level; factors students felt impeded their participation; and what they perceived to enhance their participation in the management of UDS. The views of some Deans and Hall masters were sought. The study was a descriptive survey. The sample consisted of 297 student leaders of the SRC, NUGS, GNA TOC and the amalgamated clubs and societies of the three campuses of the UDS. Eleven lecturers made up of the Pro -Vice-Chancellor, the Dean and Vice - Dean of Students' Affairs and all the Hall Tutors, and six administrators which consisted of the Registrar and Assistant Registrars where sampled for oral interviews. Data was collected using questionnaire for students and structured interview guides for the lecturers and administrators. The data were analyzed by the SPSS software. Means and standard deviations, frequencies and percentages were calculated for the analysis. The study revealed that, students are given representation on a few committees and boards of UDS and with one or two student representation. The study also showed that students did not know the extent to which they participated in the various administrative systems listed for their opinions. However, students generally agreed that their participation in the management of the University would enhance the smooth teaching and learning in the institution. The interviews also revealed that there were some difficulties but that administrations were finding the best way to improve conditions in the University.