Bolgatanga, Feb. 3, GNA - The National Executive Committee of the University for Development Studies (UDS) Alumni Association, has proposed the establishment of a training Unit or centre on conflict prevention, Management and Resolution at the University. The National President of the Association, Mr. Felix Kofi Abagale made the proposal during the inauguration of the Upper East chapter of the association in Bolgatanga on Monday.

He said the proposal had already been sent to the university authorities for consideration.

He explained that the training of students in conflict prevention, management and resolution in the UDS catchment areas would help in the resolution of conflicts or reduce them drastically to pave way for national development.

He indicated that as members of the UDS Alumni association, they were not happy about conflicts in the three Northern Regions since it was drawing the development of the area back. The president therefore stressed the need for all Regional Co-ordinating councils as well as the district assemblies to buy the idea and contribute immensely for the speedy take off of the programme.

Mr. Michael Zure, President of the Regional Chapter of the alumni said the association would collaborate with stakeholders to contribute to the peace process in Bawku and other conflict prone areas. He said the alumni would embark on an aggressive membership drive, secure office accommodation for the secretariat, initiate income generation activities and promote carrier and counselling in selected senior and junior high schools.

Mr. Zure called on government to provide the UDS with adequate infrastructure to enhance academic work.

He said despite the challenges facing the university its unique courses in problem solving approaches to learning had produced great persons who are contributing significantly to the development of the country. Mr. Zure noted that the establishment of the university campuses in the Northern, Upper East and Upper West regions had led to a significant address of poverty related issues in the area.